Online scam exposure remains widespread in ME: Survey

MUSCAT, APRIL 16

There is a considerable gap between consumers’ confidence in identifying online scams and their actual exposure to cyber threats, leading global cybersecurity and digital privacy company Kaspersky has warned.

According to a recent survey by the firm, more than one-third of respondents (36%) in the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa (META) region reported encountering an online scam or attempted scam within the past 12 months, underscoring the persistent and evolving nature of digital risks. Worryingly, these threats are far from hypothetical: a similar share (37%) of surveyed users had fallen victim to online scams resulting in data compromise or financial loss.

Among those affected, nearly half (49%) experienced scams via social media platforms, while 48% reported investment or financial fraud attempts, and 41% cited scams associated with fake delivery or postal messages. Phishing emails remain a significant threat as well, impacting 43% of respondents. These figures point to the increasingly diverse tactics used by cybercriminals to target individuals across multiple channels.

Despite this, confidence levels remain strikingly high: 80% of respondents believe they can recognize a scam, with 34% expressing strong certainty in their ability to avoid falling victim. This overconfidence may contribute to risky online behaviour and reduced vigilance.

When it comes to protective measures, respondents demonstrate mixed habits. While 57% report using strong and unique passwords, only 36% consistently check URLs before clicking, and 34% avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive activities. Notably, fewer than half (40%) use a dedicated security solution, meaning a significant number of users may be exposed to cyber threats. Alarmingly, 6% admit they do not use any specific security measures at all.

Regular maintenance of digital security tools also appears inconsistent. Just 35% of respondents update passwords and review security settings regularly — at least once a month or more often. Meanwhile, 41% do so only occasionally, 19% rarely, and 5% never take such actions.

“The survey findings highlight a critical need for increased awareness and stronger adoption of comprehensive cybersecurity practices. While individual habits such as password hygiene and cautious browsing are essential, they should be complemented by reliable security solutions and regular security updates to effectively mitigate modern cyber threats,” commented Seifallah Jedidi, Head of Consumer Channel in the Middle East, Turkiye and Africa at Kaspersky.