Connect with us

E-Business

Firm Predicts AI, Privacy to Shape Consumer Cybersecurity Landscape in 2025

Published

on

Kindly share this post

According to Kaspersky’s latest report, artificial intelligence (AI) will become an integral part of daily life, while privacy concerns around biometric data and advanced technologies will take center stage in 2025. These forecasts are part of the annual Kaspersky Security Bulletin series, which provides an outlook on the cybersecurity trends and threats expected to impact consumers in the coming year.

AI becomes an everyday reality

AI is predicted to fully integrate into daily life in 2025, becoming a standard tool rather than a novel technology. With prominent operating systems like iOS and Android rolling out AI-enhanced features, people will increasingly rely on AI for communication, workflows, and creative tasks.

However, this normalisation also brings challenges, particularly as personalised deepfakes become increasingly sophisticated in the absence of reliable detection tools.

Privacy regulations will expand user data ownership

The growing emphasis on privacy is expected to lead to new regulations that strengthen user control over personal data. By 2025, individuals may gain the right to monetise their data, transfer it easily across platforms, and benefit from simplified consent processes.

Global frameworks, such as the EU’s GDPR, California’s CPRA and South Africa’s POPIA, continue to inspire reforms worldwide, while decentralised storage technologies could further strengthen user autonomy over their information.

Fraudsters will continue to exploit premieres and releases

Cybercriminals are expected to target prominent gaming, console, and film launches in 2025. Titles like Mafia: The Old Country, Civilization VII, and Death Stranding 2, as well as the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, are likely to attract scams involving fake pre-orders, counterfeit rootkits, and malicious downloads.

Similarly, blockbuster films like Superman and Jurassic World Rebirth may trigger phishing campaigns and counterfeit merchandise fraud aimed at enthusiastic fanbases.

Political polarisation will fuel cyberbullying

Increasing political polarisation is expected to exacerbate cyberbullying in 2025. Social media algorithms that amplify divisive content, combined with the widespread availability of AI tools for creating deepfakes and doctored posts, are likely to intensify online harassment. Cross-border cyberbullying could also escalate as global platforms facilitate the targeting of individuals based on their political beliefs.

Rising number of subscription services will fuel fraud risks

As the global economy shifts further towards subscription-based models, a rise in fraud related to fake subscription promotions is expected. Cybercriminals are expected to create counterfeit services that mimic legitimate platforms, aiming to deceive users into providing personal and financial information, resulting in identity theft and financial losses.

Additionally, the growth of unofficial resources that provide discounted or free access to subscription services is expected to become a significant threat vector, exposing users to phishing attacks, malware, and data breaches.

Prohibition of social media for children may lead to broader user restrictions

Australia’s proposed legislation to ban social media access for children under 16 could set a global precedent. If implemented successfully, the restriction could pave the way for broader limitations on access for other demographics.

Platforms like Instagram have already begun adopting AI-powered age-verification systems, signaling a shift toward stricter governance of online spaces.

“As we look to 2025, the most significant impact on consumers is expected to arise from the intersection of innovation and regulation. Advances in AI, privacy protection, and data ownership frameworks will reshape the way people interact with technology and manage their digital lives.

These developments hold immense potential but also demand careful oversight to ensure they serve consumer interests,” said Anna Larkina, Kaspersky privacy expert.


Kindly share this post

Dear Reader, Your support matters. But we believe that technology makes life more exciting and helps improve the lives of people around Nigeria and indeed the world. That is why, we have devoted our energy to independent reportage of technology and finance and how they affect lives. Our incisive and analytical view of how technology news affects the daily life help individuals and organizations make up their minds. Quality journalism costs money. Today, we're asking that you support us to do more. Kindly support our effort to deliver technology and finance journalism to everyone in the world. Donate as little as N1,000. Bank transfers can be made to: UBA Plc 1017156876 Communication Week Media Ltd

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Comments

E-Business

Konga Jara Brings Joy to Shoppers with Up to 50 Percent Discounts

Published

on

Kindly share this post

Konga’s annual Jara campaign has sparked excitement among Nigerian shoppers, offering timely discounts of up to 50% across various product categories.

Konga Jara Brings Joy to Shoppers with Up to 50 Percent Discounts

The initiative, themed “Confam New Year Deals,” has emerged as a vital lifeline for consumers navigating the financial challenges typical of January.

Market analysis shows a significant surge in essential household purchases, with electronics, home appliances, and FMCG items leading the sales charts.

Data from the first two weeks of the campaign reveals that home appliances and electronics account for 45% of total sales. Groceries and FMCG follow closely at 30%, while fashion and lifestyle products make up 25% of purchases.

“Konga Jara couldn’t have come at a better time,” says Mrs. Folake Adeyemi, a Lagos-based civil servant.

“With school fees and other January commitments, the discounts on groceries have helped me maintain our family’s standard of living without breaking the bank.”

Similarly, Mr. Chidubem Okafor, a small business owner in Abuja, notes, “I’ve been able to restock my shop with quality products at much lower prices. The authenticity of products on Konga gives me confidence in my purchases.”

The campaign’s success reflects growing consumer trust in online shopping platforms that prioritize genuine products and competitive pricing.

Shoppers have particularly appreciated the convenience of accessing these deals both online at www.konga.com and offline across Konga’s nationwide retail stores.

Beyond mere discounts, the initiative demonstrates Konga’s understanding of the Nigerian consumer’s needs, especially during traditionally challenging financial periods.

The combination of competitive pricing, product authenticity, and accessible shopping channels has created a winning formula for both the business and its customers.

As the campaign continues, shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of these substantial savings across all categories.

Whether shopping for household essentials, electronics, or fashion items, Konga Jara offers an opportunity to make significant savings while ensuring access to genuine, high-quality products through Nigeria’s trusted e-commerce platform.

 

 

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

E-Business

NOA Launches Nigeria’s General Multipurpose National Identity Card

Published

on

Kindly share this post

National Orientation Agency (NOA) has officially unveiled details about Nigeria’s upcoming General Multipurpose National Identity Card (GMPC).

NOA Launches Nigeria’s General Multipurpose National Identity Card

This innovative initiative aims to consolidate identification documents, improve financial accessibility, and streamline government and private sector services for Nigerian citizens.

Key Features of the GMPC

Unified Identification:

The GMPC will replace multiple identity documents, serving as a comprehensive form of identification for Nigerians.

This will reduce the burden of carrying multiple cards and simplify access to services.

Financial Integration:

In collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS), the GMPC will allow users to conduct financial transactions directly through the card. It will act as both an ID and a payment tool.

AFRIGO Support:

The GMPC will operate under the AFRIGO card scheme, Nigeria’s domestic payment system.

This move aims to promote the use of locally developed financial infrastructure and reduce dependency on foreign systems.

How to Apply

Citizens can apply for the GMPC through several channels:

Online Portal: Applicants can initiate the process online via a self-service portal.

NIMC Offices: Physical applications will be accepted at National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) offices across the country.

Banks: Selected banks will also facilitate applications, allowing individuals to apply directly through their financial institutions.

Applicants will need to provide their National Identification Number (NIN) as part of the application.

Once processed, the GMPC will be issued through the applicant’s chosen bank, similar to how debit and credit cards are distributed.

Cardholders can collect their GMPC at designated collection points or opt for home delivery at an additional fee.

The General Multipurpose National Identity Card (GMPC) is expected to revolutionise identification and service delivery in Nigeria.

It will provide secure, multi-purpose access to financial, governmental, and private sector services.

Additionally, the card is poised to enhance financial inclusion by bridging gaps for underserved communities.

The new identity card is part of the government’s broader effort to embrace digital transformation.

By consolidating identification and financial services into a single platform, the GMPC aligns with the country’s drive toward technological advancement and efficient service delivery.

The NOA has urged all eligible citizens to stay informed about the application process and prepare to leverage the benefits of the GMPC once it becomes available.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to modernising administrative systems and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

 

 

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

E-Business

US Supreme Court Upholds Law Banning TikTok

Published

on

Kindly share this post

The United States Supreme Court has upheld a law seeking to ban TikTok in the United States.

US Supreme Court Upholds Law Banning TikTok

The court ruled that the law does not infringe upon free speech rights, citing the US government’s legitimate national security concerns about the Chinese ownership of the app.

Last week, the Supreme Court listened to the arguments from ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, claiming the law violated free speech.

“There is no doubt that TikTok provides a unique platform for expression, engagement, and community to over 170 million Americans,” the justices stated.

With this decision, the ban set for Sunday remains in place, despite calls from lawmakers and officials across the political spectrum for a delay.

Last year, Congress passed a law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or shut it down in the US by January 19, reflecting widespread concerns in Washington that the app could be exploited by China for espionage or propaganda.

On Friday, White House officials informed the media that the ban would not be enforced, leaving the final decision to President-elect Donald Trump, who assumes office the next day.

In December 2024, TikTok asked the US Supreme Court to temporarily block a law that would force its Chinese owner to sell the popular video-sharing platform or shut it down by January 19.

The appeal came the same day TikTok, Shou Zi Chew, CEO, met with US President-elect Donald Trump.

 

 

 


Kindly share this post
Continue Reading

Trending