Cyber Security Challenges in Developing Countries: A Special Reference to Afghanistan

Year : 2025 | Volume : 03 | Issue : 01 | Page : 1-6
    By

    Mohammad Salem Hamidi,

  • Baldev Singh,

  1. Lecturer, Department of Computer Science, Jahan University, Kabul, Afghanistan
  2. Dean, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Vivekananda Global University (VGU), Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Abstract

This review paper explores the widespread cybersecurity challenges encountered by developing countries, specifically concentrating on Afghanistan during the period from 2020 to 2024. The study highlights the significant gaps in cybersecurity capabilities, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks that exacerbate the vulnerability of these nations to cyber threats. Key findings include the lack of basic legal frameworks for countering cybercrime, with only a minority of African states, and presumably other developing regions like Afghanistan, having such frameworks in place. The paper underscores the critical shortage of proficient cybersecurity personnel, estimated at 100,000 in Africa alone, which is likely mirrored in Afghanistan. The rapid digitalization and adoption of new technologies, such as cloud services, internet of things (IoT) applications, and digital identification systems, have introduced new cyber risks that these countries are ill-equipped to handle. The economic impact is substantial, with estimated losses from cyberattacks running into billions of dollars globally, and significant portions of these losses affecting developing countries. The research also emphasizes the geopolitical and technological transitions that have heightened the risk of cyberattacks. Geopolitical tensions and the increasing use of cyber technologies by state and non-state actors have made the cyber threat landscape more complex. The paper cites examples of ransomware attacks, data breaches, and disruptions to critical infrastructure, such as payment systems and healthcare services, which have severe consequences for economic stability and public trust. To address these challenges, the paper recommends a partnership approach involving international cooperation, capacity-building activities, and the development of national cybersecurity strategies. It stresses the importance of periodic assessments of the cybersecurity landscape, improving cyber hygiene, and enhancing collaboration among national and international stakeholders. The study concludes that effective cybersecurity measures are crucial for the digital development and security of developing countries like Afghanistan, and that concerted efforts are necessary to bridge the existing gaps and build resilient cybersecurity ecosystems. This research contributes to the understanding of the specific cybersecurity challenges in Afghanistan and other developing countries, providing insights that can inform policy and practical interventions to enhance cybersecurity capabilities and protect against the escalating threats in the digital age.

Keywords: Cyber, cyber challenges, Afghanistan cyber, AFCERT, cyber security, security challenges

[This article belongs to International Journal of Information Security Engineering ]

How to cite this article:
Mohammad Salem Hamidi, Baldev Singh. Cyber Security Challenges in Developing Countries: A Special Reference to Afghanistan. International Journal of Information Security Engineering. 2025; 03(01):1-6.
How to cite this URL:
Mohammad Salem Hamidi, Baldev Singh. Cyber Security Challenges in Developing Countries: A Special Reference to Afghanistan. International Journal of Information Security Engineering. 2025; 03(01):1-6. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/ijise/article=2025/view=201690



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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 03
Issue 01
Received 10/10/2024
Accepted 28/01/2025
Published 12/02/2025
Publication Time 125 Days
Total Visits: 73


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