News / National
Police warn of rising cybercrime threats in Zimbabwe
01 Sep 2025 at 05:59hrs | 286 Views
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has raised alarm over a sharp increase in cybercrime, warning that criminals are deploying advanced tactics to exploit vulnerable internet users.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said scammers are using phishing schemes, fake online identities, social engineering and fraudulent websites to defraud unsuspecting victims, particularly the elderly and less tech-savvy.
"We are seeing an unprecedented level of technological manipulation. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, using complex techniques that can easily deceive even cautious internet users. We have received several reports about people being scammed out of their money," said Comm Nyathi.
He urged the public to be vigilant by verifying online communications, avoiding unsolicited messages, strengthening passwords and keeping security software updated. He also stressed the importance of educating family members about online risks, noting that cybercrime not only causes financial losses but also significant emotional harm.
The ZRP has established specialised cybercrime units and is working with international partners, including through Interpol's Africa Cyber Surge, to combat the problem. Government has also enacted the Cyber and Data Protection Act to strengthen legal frameworks against cyber threats.
Comm Nyathi said cases of mobile money fraud, card fraud, identity theft and hacking remain prevalent, with online scams like phishing posing persistent dangers. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, saying community vigilance is crucial in curbing the growing menace.
"Every citizen must become their own first line of defence in the digital world," he said.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said scammers are using phishing schemes, fake online identities, social engineering and fraudulent websites to defraud unsuspecting victims, particularly the elderly and less tech-savvy.
"We are seeing an unprecedented level of technological manipulation. Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, using complex techniques that can easily deceive even cautious internet users. We have received several reports about people being scammed out of their money," said Comm Nyathi.
He urged the public to be vigilant by verifying online communications, avoiding unsolicited messages, strengthening passwords and keeping security software updated. He also stressed the importance of educating family members about online risks, noting that cybercrime not only causes financial losses but also significant emotional harm.
The ZRP has established specialised cybercrime units and is working with international partners, including through Interpol's Africa Cyber Surge, to combat the problem. Government has also enacted the Cyber and Data Protection Act to strengthen legal frameworks against cyber threats.
Comm Nyathi said cases of mobile money fraud, card fraud, identity theft and hacking remain prevalent, with online scams like phishing posing persistent dangers. He encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, saying community vigilance is crucial in curbing the growing menace.
"Every citizen must become their own first line of defence in the digital world," he said.
Source - The Chronicle
