2023/06/10 by Paul Kariuki, Lizzy Ofusori, Lizzy Oluwatoyin Ofusori +1
Computer Science · Social Sciences · #Crime, Illicit Activities, and Governance #Cybercrime and Law Enforcement Studies #Cybersecurity and Cyber Warfare Studies
paper · pdf · doi:10.1057/s41284-023-00378-1
openalex publication_date 2023/06/10 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/25
Cybersecurity threats have increased as the world becomes increasingly interconnected. Whilst the use of technology to facilitate commercial activities is now common practice, there is a need to limit exposure to these threats so that traders can transact safely. This study aimed to identify and analyse common cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats experienced by small-scale African migrant traders in Southern Africa. A qualitative approach was employed and semi-structured and key informant interviews were conducted to gather the primary data, with secondary data sourced from the relevant literature. The study found that the majority of the small-scale traders experienced hacking while using their mobile devices for transacting. Moreover, most reported a lack of knowledge of cybersecurity and were therefore vulnerable to further threats. It is recommended that small-scale traders be capacitated with relevant technical information to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity risks that can negatively affect their commercial activities. There is also a need for further research to identify mitigation techniques and infrastructure to protect small-scale traders.