From turbulence to transformation: How local leaders can shift their trajectory in 2026

As business and technology converge in 2026, leaders must navigate rapid change, innovate on the fly, and build resilience amidst uncertainty. In South Africa, businesses are focused on maximising efficiency through flexible virtualisation, accelerating AI adoption beyond pilots, and strengthening cybersecurity to combat emerging AI-powered threats. To succeed, leaders must embrace AI, reimagine roles, and foster cross-functional teams while prioritising security and data governance. Success will depend on adapting quickly, laying solid foundations, and embracing a continuous journey of transformation.

Genetec Introduces Faster, Smarter Investigations in Security Center SaaS

Genetec Inc. has introduced new intelligent automation (IA)-powered investigation capabilities in its Security Center SaaS, transforming how security operators find and analyze video evidence. The update enables faster searches, contextual insights, and streamlined workflows—helping organizations close cases in minutes while maintaining privacy and efficiency.

Phishing Evolving with AI and Stealth: Kaspersky Highlights Biometric and Signature Risks

Kaspersky reports a sharp rise in phishing attacks, with over 142 million phishing link clicks blocked in Q2 2025. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI-driven tactics such as deepfakes, voice cloning, and trusted platforms like Telegram and Google Translate to steal sensitive data, including biometric and signature information. This evolution in phishing is making attacks more sophisticated, bypassing traditional security measures and posing unprecedented risks to individuals and businesses. Kaspersky highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive security measures to combat these advanced threats.

Kaspersky warns of a ransomware gang that blackmails victims after publicly revealing their data

Kaspersky has issued a warning about the Fog Ransomware group, which has escalated its tactics by publicly revealing victims’ stolen data and IP addresses on the Dark Web. This shift from traditional ransomware extortion to a more aggressive and fear-driven method is designed to increase pressure on victims to comply with ransom demands. The group, which primarily targets industries such as education, recreation, and finance, exploits compromised VPN credentials to infiltrate networks and encrypt data. The new tactic exposes not only the stolen data but also IP addresses, potentially increasing follow-up attacks and regulatory risks for victims.

SOUTH AFRICA’S DIGITAL FUTURE HINDERED by RISING CYBER THREATS

The article discusses South Africa’s increasing vulnerability to cyber threats, particularly ransomware and digital extortion, which pose a significant challenge to the country’s ambition of becoming a leading digital economy. Despite strong digital infrastructure and growth in sectors like AI and fintech, South Africa’s cybersecurity efforts remain inadequate, with weak law enforcement and insufficient protections for critical infrastructure.