Chamwe Kaira
Cyber crooks are using sharper and more sophisticated tactics to target businesses and individuals, experts have warned.
Social engineering remains one of the most common methods. Criminals use phishing emails, fake calls, and misleading messages to trick people into giving them sensitive information.
“They often pose as trusted institutions, create urgency and convince victims that sharing details will prevent financial harm,” said FirstRand Namibia chief executive officer Conrad Dempsey.
Deepfake and AI-driven fraud are also rising. Criminals use synthetic media to copy voices or identities for high-value scams. “As more businesses move online, these sophisticated techniques are harder to detect without proper awareness,” said Dempsey.
Fraudsters are also gaining access to devices through social engineering and technology-driven methods. Once inside a phone or computer, they link to their own apps and carry out unauthorised transactions. Card fraud is climbing, with stolen card details used for online purchases.
Business email compromise is another major threat. Criminals intercept emails and change banking details on invoices or payment instructions, redirecting money to fraudulent accounts.
“These tactics underscore the need for continuous vigilance, robust internal controls and proactive education across all levels of business,” Dempsey warned.
He urged Namibians to stay alert. “We may not be able to eliminate every threat, but we can reduce vulnerability by staying informed, alert and connected. When each of us plays our part, we build a system that is stronger, safer and far harder to infiltrate.”
The warnings came during International Fraud Awareness Week.
FNB and RMB Namibia hosted a high-level fraud and cybersecurity engagement attended by senior decision-makers and risk officers. The session addressed the rising threat of fraud and cybercrime and how it affects individuals, businesses and the wider economy.
Dempsey said the impact of fraud goes beyond technical systems.
“Fraud and cybercrime are no longer occasional disruptions; they are persistent, sophisticated threats that strike at the very foundation of trust on which our businesses and financial systems depend.”
Attendees discussed emerging trends, new prevention tools and ways to strengthen resilience across industries. They also examined how cooperation between law enforcement, media, community groups and customers can help fight financial crime.
Dempsey said openness is essential.
“If there is one thing recent incidents have taught us, it is this: fraud thrives in silence, in isolation and in misinformation. So, we are choosing connection. We are choosing transparency. And we are choosing collaboration.”
The event took place ahead of the festive season, a period when cybercrime often increases.
