Southtechreviews

By Mandy Duncan, Country Manager for HPE Aruba Networking South Africa Ransomware is becoming a major headache for businesses in South Africa. Recent research from Interpol shows that, on average, cyberattacks on organisations across Africa have surged by 23% year-on-year, with ransomware quickly becoming one of the most prevalent threats. Dealing with ransomware effectively often means using a mix of security solutions. However, if these solutions aren’t well-coordinated, it can lead to complexity, inconsistencies, and gaps in security. This makes it harder for teams to carry out the essential functions needed to guard against ransomware threats. Resources such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) 2.0 can help businesses reduce cybersecurity risk [i] as it outlines six key functions, acting as a guide for organisations aiming to bolster their defenses. Given this context, AI-powered networking solutions can play a pivota...

By Mandy Duncan, Country Manager for HPE Aruba Networking South Africa The recent drafting of South Africa’s national policy framework for artificial intelligence (AI) by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies is a significant milestone for the nation. As the department describes it, this framework is the “first step” in crafting a comprehensive national AI policy. Importantly, as AI introduces new surfaces for potential attacks, it also presents a timely opportunity for the newly elected coalition government to reassess and fortify South Africa’s broader cyber security policies and measures. Huge potential exists in South Africa’s rapidly developing cyber landscape, which is unlocking new ways of working while creating jobs to grow every sector of the local economy. However, this also means the risks associated with an increasingly digital economy need to be addressed with practical actions. It’s been almost ten years since the local government in South Africa publi...

  By Mandy Duncan, Country Manager for HPE Aruba Networking South Africa Animal tracking is among the oldest forms of science in recorded history, its origins dating back tens of thousands of years. Despite its importance to understanding the world around us, trackers have long struggled with issues like incomplete records or poor connectivity in the field. These trackers are collecting precious data that can help conservation efforts, and, as such, they need access to real-time information and historical records.   This information is particularly pertinent, given the rate at which climate disasters are  threatening the survival of at-risk species . Trackers need to be able to quickly identify signs of animal life, like paw prints, droppings, or trail paths, and seamlessly communicate with others in the field. This real-time connectivity is critical to the future of this ancient art form.   A primer on animal tracking It sounds simple, but what actually is...