Social Media

11 September 2023

How cybercriminals trick their victims

Location: News

Key findings:

40% of the respondents from eight countries had been scammed online
Distraction and multi-tasking made 43% of the victims fall for an online scam
Financial scams affected nearly 48% of respondents

Nearly half of the 800 African survey participants have fallen victim to an online scam at least once, losing thousands of dollars in the process and compromising their personal data. This alarming statistic is one of the key findings of the KnowBe4 2023 Online Scams and Victims in Africa Report, which was just released. The report is based on a survey of 800 respondents across eight African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Mauritius, and Botswana. According to the report, 53% of the respondents who fell victim, were convinced the offer was legitimate because the website looked real, while nearly 48% of the scams were financial.

“These numbers highlight that online scams have evolved,” says Anna Collard, SVP Content Strategy & Evangelist at KnowBe4 AFRICA. “What is concerning is that 43% of the victims were distracted and multi-tasking when they fell for the scam, which highlights how easy it is for a person to make a mistake when they are not paying attention. Their emotional states can affect a person's judgment, awareness, and decision-making, causing them to be more vulnerable to online deception,” says Collard.

Financial scams were the most common type of online fraud, affecting nearly half of the respondents (50%). Other prevalent scams involved fake investments (30%), cryptocurrencies and NFTs (29%), brand impersonation (28%), information theft (24%), online shopping (21%), and fake job offers (21%). Less frequent but still significant scams included the classic Nigerian scam (17%), family or friend impersonation (18%), law enforcement impersonation (7%), tax fraud (6%), holiday fraud (9%), romance fraud (13%), and lottery fraud (15%).

An email was the preferred channel for scammers to initiate contact, accounting for 24% of the cases. Social media came in second with 19%, followed by WhatsApp with 10% and other messaging services like Telegram with 8%. In Nigeria, however, social media was the most used platform for scams (32%), while in South Africa, email was the dominant method (28%). The scammers often used social engineering techniques to convince their victims, such as creating rapport or trust by making websites look legitimate, sending messages that appealed to emotions, using social media profiles that seemed authentic, and avoiding spelling or grammar mistakes.

Collard says that the statistics reveal a more evolved and sophisticated network of scammers who use emerging technology to lure people into costly mistakes. 30% lost between US$100 and US$1,000, 40% around US$100, and 9% more than US$1,000.

The report also showed that falling for a scam had a significant psychological impact on many victims. While 23% said it had little or no effect on them, nearly 50% felt a strong or moderate impact. The results highlight how easy it is for victims to blame themselves, when in reality, they were deceived by cunning scam tactics. The survey found that many victims experienced negative emotions, such as embarrassment (39%), anger (40%), naivety (40%), loss of trust (36%), and shame (25%). Some also felt traumatised (20%), vulnerable and helpless (25%), anxious (16%), and guilty and fearful (15%).

The emotional toll of falling for an online scam may be more harmful than the money lost as a result. For most victims, the financial consequences were not severe, with 24% saying it took them several months to recover and 10% saying it took more than a year, but the majority had no repercussions or recovered in a few days to a few weeks. However, when it came to healing from the psychological impact of the scam, the majority said it took them a few months (22%) and 11% said it took more than a year.

“The report shows how vulnerable people are to online scams and the emotional distress they cause,” says Collard. “While respondents were aware of scams and understood the risks, many still said they did not feel prepared, which highlights the need for regular training that gives people continuous awareness of scams and the threat they pose, to themselves and their organisations.”

You can download the full report here. https://apo-opa.info/3LjspOS

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.

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7 September 2023

DIRCO Deputy Minister concludes visit to Ethiopia

Location: News

DIRCO Deputy Minister concludes visit to Ethiopia

International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Alvin Botes, has concluded his visit to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The Deputy Minister was participating in the Validation Workshop of the Principles and Guidelines of the Use of Digital and Social Media in Elections.

The General Assembly of the Association of African Electoral Authorities (AAEA) has mandated the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) to implement resolutions and guidelines for safeguarding electoral integrity in the digital age as well as producing strategies for combating digital disinformation.

The IEC is supported by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) through the African Renaissance Fund.

The Deputy Minister delivered a speech on Tuesday affirming South Africa’s support for the principles and guidelines for the use of digital and social media in elections in Africa.

In his speech, the Deputy Minister said: “It is important for governments and electoral management bodies to take advantage of these digital and social media to inform and capacitate our youth, given that our continent has a youthful populace”.

Botes told delegates that digital and social media can also be harnessed to reach various sectors of society, including those in rural areas, as well as those living with disabilities to ensure that no one is left behind.

However, he said necessary infrastructure should be put in place for countries to be able to take full advantage of these technological developments.

“In addition to the information and communication infrastructure, there is a need for the appropriate legislative and regulatory system to be put in place that would facilitate access to information and the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and association, in line with the various constitutions in place across our continent, as well as the attendant responsibilities that go with the exercise of such rights,” he added.

It is envisaged that following the Validation Workshop, the AAEA General Assembly, alongside the Annual Election Management Bodies Forum to be organised by the AU Commission in Benin, in November 2023, will adopt the Principles, and Guidelines on the Use of Digital and Social Media in Elections in Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Thu, 09/07/2023 - 10:31

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5 September 2023

Algoa FM Celebrates decades of transforming communities on International Charity Day

Location: MyPR

On International Charity Day on September 5, Algoa FM reflects on more than three decades of dedicated community service. For 35 years, Algoa FM has made a profound impact on the lives of people residing within its broadcast footprint through numerous fund-raising drives. Algoa FM’s broadcast footprint extends from the Garden Route to the Wild …

5 September 2023

Top 50 Google Search Queries Bringing Traffic to MyPR

Location: MyPR

At the end of the day anyone that submits a press release to MyPR wants to know that their article can and will be found by people searching for relevant and timeous information. No matter how you spin it, Google Search is still the benchmark when it comes to finding information and a top of …

31 August 2023

Promoting Local Nelson Mandela Bay Business

Location: MyPR

The Eastern Cape is a real dichotomy – many internationally known business and sportspersons hail from Nelson Mandela Bay and the Eastern Cape, many businesses are lauded for their innovational ways of conducting business and then… most of those people, schooled and hardened in the deep, hot trenches are then snapped up to work in …

31 August 2023

African Conservation Awards Finalists Announced

Location: News

This year, the announcement of the winners of the prestigious African Conservation Awards will be held at the Southern African Wildlife College on 16 September 2023 and hosted by the Game Rangers Association of Africa (https://www.GameRanger.org/).

The Awards will take place after a regional event of the Wildlife Ranger Challenge, a Pan-African initiative which will see ranger teams across the continent compete against each other in a 21km race, carrying 22kgs on their backs! The Southern African Wildlife College is a perfect venue to host both these important events on the ranger calendar.

Each organisation and individual that has been shortlisted has shown remarkable determination to succeed when the odds have often been stacked against them. Conservation areas continue to face many challenges, including limited resources and working against criminal syndicates. Despite this, remarkable people continue to do amazing things for wildlife and the communities who benefit from it.

“The African Conservation Awards showcase extraordinary people doing extraordinary things for nature. It is our privilege to give them the recognition they so richly deserve. Well done to all the nominees who continue to inspire us with their dedicated contribution to conservation. We look forward to celebrating their exemplary efforts!” Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer of the Game Rangers' Association of Africa.

60 nominations from 11 countries across Africa were received this year. What is also very encouraging to see is the increase in nominations of female rangers which resulted in half of the finalists in the Field Ranger and Game Ranger categories being female. We are also excited to see the different countries across Africa represented among the finalists. Highlighting the quality of nominations this year, we have a “Highly Commended” acknowledgment in each of the four categories. Although these are not finalists, they deserve special mention and must be applauded.

The finalists for this year's African Conservation Awards, listed in alphabetical order below, are:

Field Ranger:

Givemore Bako, Senior Ranger and Head Rhino Monitor of Anti-Poaching Tracking Specialists, Savé Valley Conservancy, Zimbabwe
Nkateko Letti Mzimba, Sergeant of Black Mambas Unit, Olifants West Nature Reserve, South Africa
Reginah Smith, Corporal of the Rhino Protection Unit, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, South Africa

Game Ranger:

Amos Gwema, Principle Investigation and Security Officer, Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Zimbabwe
Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Ranger Services, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Petronella Chigumbura, Deputy Ranger Supervisor, Akashinga, Zimbabwe

Conservation Team:

Majete Wildlife Reserve, Malawi
Wildlife Action Group, Thuma Forest Reserve and the Dedza Salima Escarpment Forest Reserve, Malawi
Zinave National Park, Mozambique

Conservation Supporter:

African Pangolin Working Group, South Africa
Joseph Serugo Ssalongo, Honorary Wildlife Officer, Uganda
Rhino Man, South Africa

Highly commended nominations by the judging panel for their excellent work were given to Field Ranger Owenyo Alphonse (Uganda) and Marine Ranger Tima Dago (Kenya); Game Rangers Ali Hassan (Kenya) and Simon Ewoi (Kenya); EWT Soutpansberg Rangers (South Africa) for Conservation Team and Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital (South Africa) for Conservation Supporter.

These awards are hosted annually by the Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) and are made possible with the generous support of sponsors CNEI. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, who is committed to the protection of endangered species through the support of his Foundation, is the Patron of the African Conservation Awards.

The winners of each category will be announced on 16 September at SAWC where they will be celebrated by their ranger colleagues.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Game Rangers Association of Africa.

Contact persons:
Louise de Bruin
info@gameranger.org

Casey Pratt
casey@loveafricamarketing.com

Please join us on social media here:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.info/3ElcHze

Instagram: https://apo-opa.info/3EkEuzF

Information:

African Conservation Awards: https://ConservationAwards.Africa/
Game Rangers Association of Africa: https://www.GameRanger.org/
Sponsors for the event: CNEI
Patron: His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco
Tagline: Recognising a wide range of exceptional individuals and organisations
and raising awareness of the amazing work they do.
#ACA2023 #AfricanConservationAwards2023

GRAA background:
The Game Rangers' Association of Africa (GRAA) is a non-profit organisation, founded in 1970 which provides support, networks and representation for rangers across Africa. The GRAA is a proud member of the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) where it serves as the voice of the African ranger.

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29 August 2023

Lawyer in Amazon controversy caught in qualification lie

Location: News

Timothy Dunn, an attorney in the River Club dispute, does not have the master’s degree he claims to have

27 August 2023

Collective effort needed to fight cyberbullying

Location: News

Collective effort needed to fight cyberbullying

Collective effort can create greater awareness of cyberbullying or any violence against women, says acting government spokesperson Nomonde Mnukwa.

“Through our collective effort, we can create greater awareness of cyberbullying or any violence against women especially and bring perpetrators to justice. Often people are reluctant to report such cases but I want to encourage you to do so through the SAPS Crime Stop (Tip-off Line) [on] 0860 010 111,” she said on Friday.

Mnukwa who is also the acting Director-General of the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS), was speaking at the fourth annual Women in Media and Communication panel discussion focusing on the cyberbullying of female journalists and online gender-based violence.

She told those attending the session at the TUT Pretoria Campus that the gender-based violence pandemic is felt at all levels of society.

“Young and old, rich or poor, all races - we are all not immune. In our time, we have made our voice heard and continue to do so against such injustices. However, we need the voice of the youth to be louder, we need to change the landscape, it is our responsibility, it is in our hands,” she said.

She urged young people to use the resources at their disposal to ensure the safety of women.

“We may be focussing on cyberbullying today, but we know that the attitude that we see on social media towards women is just an extension of what happens in homes and communities.”

She said the effect of online violence or cyberbullying can be devastating, leaving the targeted person feeling hurt, humiliated, angry, depressed or even suicidal.

“I want to remind you today that you about the power that we possess as women and as youth, we change environments, we move mountains, we are unstoppable. You are not powerless if you are a target of online violence and abuse.

“Save the evidence by capturing the social media post, voice note, image or video for use as evidence should you ever need it. As you may know, social media websites are also doing their part to keep the spaces free of abusive content.”

Responsibility

Turning her attention to government communication, she said government communicators have a responsibility to provide on time, credible information as prescribed in the constitution.

“It is our responsibility to communicate to South Africans about issues that are pertinent in their lives – ranging from providing empowering information, progress on government commitments and key developments, most importantly in the languages that they understand. It is also our responsibility to communicate about South Africa in the continent and the world at large.

“Coming closer to today’s theme, it is part of our work as government communicators to empower citizens like yourselves with information on where to report acts of abuse of any form especially cyberbullying.

“We need to work in a very ethical, responsible, accountable ways. In a world of misinformation and fake news, these professionals are the gatekeepers of truth. Fake news and misinformation is rife in cyberspaces.”

She added that communicators and journalists have a critical role in countering false narratives, dispelling myths, and ensuring that citizens receive credible information.

“By doing so, they empower the public to make informed decisions and actively engage in the democratic processes. Being a government communicator comes with great responsibility. Similar to journalists, upholding high levels of integrity, ethical standard is paramount, as their words and actions have the power to shape public opinion and influence decision-making processes.

“As students, you represent the future of this nation. Whether you aspire to become government communicators or pursue other paths, the value of effective communication cannot be underestimated.

“By developing your communication skills, you contribute to building a more informed, empathetic, and united society. Embrace the power of dialogue, listen to diverse perspectives, and cultivate the ability to convey your thoughts clearly and respectfully,” she said. –SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Sun, 08/27/2023 - 11:59

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23 August 2023

Is Your Web Site on THIS List?

Location: MyPR

Today we had a look at our MyPR.co.za web site statistics for the month to date of August 2023. We have deployed our own hosted stats software and have been closely watching and comparing these stats – with Google Ananlytics and our global Server Statistics programmes – in order to check the veracity of the …

22 August 2023

Find your 5km fit at the Boxer Super Dash

Location: MyPR

The Boxer Super Run will create an unforgettable experience for all participants on Sunday 15 October 2023 when it floods the streets of Durban with waves of 5km excitement. “The 5km distance is a global favourite for various reasons,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores Head of Department: Marketing. “The popularity can be attributed to its …

22 August 2023

Mercy Ships and South African Society of Anesthesiologists (SASA) Empower Medical Practitioners through Safer Anesthetics From Education (SAFE) Training Courses in South Africa

Location: News

Mercy Ships (www.MercyShips.Africa) hosted a three-day training course in Pietermaritzburg KwaZulu-Natal, to teach medical professionals how to administer safer anesthesia during surgeries. This initiative is part of an ongoing commitment to empower medical professionals in Africa through SAFE (safer anesthetics from education) courses. These courses are designed to enhance skills in obstetric and pediatric anesthesia delivery, and critical complications management during surgeries, resulting in improved safety standards and better healthcare outcomes.

The three-day training in Pietermaritzburg forms part of a broader series of eight specialized courses scheduled to take place throughout the country. These training programs are being conducted collaboratively with the South African Department of Health (DoH), the South African Society of Anesthesiologists (SASA), and Mercy Ships. Participants will have the invaluable opportunity to learn from seasoned Mercy Ships anesthetists and SASA instructors, who have a wealth of experience in teaching SAFE courses.

Each of the courses will be conducted over a three-day period and will provide a comprehensive and hands-on learning experience for medical professionals. The curriculum includes a mix of lectures, low-tech simulations, discussions, and roleplay to ensure participants gain practical skills and knowledge. The SAFE approach incorporates Mercy Ships' expertise alongside that of local instructors. These instructors undergo a rigorous “train the trainers” program, preparing them to serve as the in-country faculty of the future.

The courses are rooted in time-tested methods and insights gleaned from SAFE courses developed by the Association of Anesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI), ensuring the highest standards of training and education for medical professionals.

“As Mercy Ships, we are extremely proud to be a part of this transformative journey providing vital training to medical practitioners and contributing to safer anesthesia practices for the benefit of mothers and children. The support of the SASA and DoH officials has been instrumental in making these courses possible, ensuring the growth of medical capabilities and the overall well-being of patients in the region,” says Brenda van Straten, Director of Mercy Ships, South Africa.

Dr Caroline Corbett, President of SASA adds that the collaboration between the South African Society of Anaesthesiologists and Mercy Ships in the delivery of these SAFE courses will have an impact on our communities and our nation well beyond the program delivery itself. “The collective investment and prioritisation of access to and training in safe, quality healthcare for our most vulnerable patients inspires hope and builds towards the sustainability of healthcare resources required for our future. SASA looks forward to many more such initiatives and proudly acknowledges our members who have selflessly contributed their time to enabling these projects through the support of Mercy Ships,” says Dr Corbett. “It is through planting these foundations of education together that we are able to grow stronger, broader healthcare services and delivery.”

“It is a privilege to be part of a team striving towards learning, improving and enhancing skills in Paediatric Anaesthesia. Knowledge changes uncertainty and fear into confident safe practices. Thank you to Mercy Ships, DOH and faculty for your support and commitment to making this course successful,” comments Dr Chantal Rajah, Facilitator of the Pietermaritzburg course.

Over the past two years, Mercy Ships has forged a dynamic partnership with SASA, addressing an urgent need within the country. This collaboration has led to the successful delivery of these courses in South Africa, empowering medical professionals to elevate their skills and bolster patient care.

All the courses are designed to enhance the skills of qualified medical professionals, ensuring safer anesthesia practices for mothers and children. Mercy Ships is fully funding these courses, and participation is offered free of charge to the attendees. Notably, the DoH has generously extended its support to ensure the success of these training programs, demonstrating its dedication to improving medical capabilities and patient safety.

The training in Pietermaritzburg was held from August 18^th to 20^th at Northdale Hospital. The remaining courses scheduled for this year include September 13^th to 15^th SAFE Paeds Gqeberha, Livingstone Hospital; September 22nd to 24^th SAFE Obs Mbombela, Mpumalanga, and December 1^st to 6^th SAFE Obs and Paeds, East London.

Of note, Mercy Ships successfully conducted three training courses earlier this year, reflecting its steadfast dedication to nurturing medical excellence. These courses included: February 17^th to 19^th SAFE Paeds Gqeberha, Livingstone Hospital; February 27^th to March 1^st SAFE Obs + Training of the Trainers, Bloemfontein Kopano Nokeng; and July 28^th to 30^th SAFE Obs Limpopo, Polokwane, St Maria's. One of the recent courses took place at Northdale Hospital, KwaZulu Natal, where officials from the DoH, SASA, and Mercy Ships came together to support local medical professionals in their pursuit of excellence.

The ongoing partnership between Mercy Ships, SASA, and the DoH exemplifies a shared commitment to enhance healthcare delivery and improve medical capabilities across South Africa. By empowering medical professionals with specialized training, these organizations collectively strive to make a positive impact on anesthesia care ensuring safer procedures for mothers and children throughout South Africa.

For further information about the upcoming courses or to inquire about participation, please visit Mercy Ships' website https://MercyShips.co.za/. Together, we can make a significant difference, accelerating access to surgical care and surgical education and creating a brighter future for communities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For More Information Contact:
Brenda van Straten
Director, South Africa, Mercy Ships
Email: info.zaf@mercyships.org
Website: www.MercyShips.co.za

Diane Rickard
International Media Relations Manager
Mercy Ships
Email: international.media@mercyships.org
Press page: https://apo-opa.info/44mzxke

About Mercy Ships:
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with African nations for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.

Each year, more than 3,000 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world's two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy® and the Global Mercy™. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical, obstetric and anaesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit MercyShips.co.za and follow @MercyShips on social media.

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18 August 2023

Event Marvels: The 5 Astonishing Titles for a South African Event Planning Business.

Location: MyPR

Event Marvels: The 5 Astonishing Titles for a South African Event Planning Business. South Africa welcomes you to a diverse land full of life and beauty, stretching from its golden savannas to its mesmerizing blue coasts. In this realm of Event Management, creativity and culture intertwine harmoniously, leading to extraordinary celebrations that are nothing short …