South Africa’s public sector is embracing digital transformation to deliver services more efficiently and connect with citizens in new ways. But as government systems move online, cybercriminals are following close behind. The latest whitepaper from NTT reveals why stronger cyber resilience is now critical to safeguarding government services and public trust.
Here are five key reasons cybersecurity can no longer be an afterthought for South Africa’s public sector.
1. Escalating Cyber Threats
From ransomware and phishing to sophisticated state-sponsored intrusions, the scale and complexity of attacks are rising. The Palo Alto Networks Unit 42 report highlighted more than 500 global incidents in 2024, with government and public institutions among the top targets.
2. Legacy Systems Create Easy Targets
Many government departments still rely on outdated technology. These legacy systems are difficult to update, lack modern security features, and present an open door for attackers. The result? Increased risk of service disruption and data breaches.
3. Real-World Attacks Are Already Disrupting Services
This is not a theoretical risk. Recent incidents at the Department of Justice, the National Health Laboratory Service, and the Department of Public Works have crippled operations and delayed services to citizens—proving just how disruptive attacks can be.
4. Skills and Budget Shortages Limit Response
Even when threats are identified, many departments lack the skilled personnel and resources to respond effectively. A shortage of cybersecurity professionals, combined with budget constraints, makes it harder to invest in proactive defences, incident response, and recovery strategies.
5. Public Trust Is on the Line
At its core, cybersecurity in government is about protecting people. When citizens lose confidence in the ability of institutions to secure sensitive data and deliver reliable services, the very foundation of trust in public administration is weakened.
Cyber resilience is more than defence—it’s about anticipating attacks, minimizing damage, and recovering quickly to ensure services continue without major disruption.
For a deep dive into South Africa’s public sector challenges and the strategies to overcome them, download the free whitepaper: Cyber Resilience for a Future-Ready Public Sector in South Africa.
👉 Download your copy here and start building a stronger, more secure future for South Africa’s public sector.
