Kenya Warns AI Can Also Power Cybercrime

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an important part of modern life, helping people work faster, solve problems and access information more easily. However, while AI offers many benefits, it can also be misused by criminals to carry out cybercrime.

On October 14, 2026, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, warned that the growing use of AI could expose individuals, businesses and government institutions to increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. He made this statement as Kenya continues to expand its digital economy.

According to The Star Kenya, Kabogo warned that artificial intelligence could make online crimes more advanced and difficult to detect. Criminals can use AI to create convincing messages that appear to come from banks, government agencies or trusted individuals. These messages may trick people into revealing their passwords, banking details or other personal information.

For example, a criminal could send someone a fake bank message claiming that their account has been blocked. The message might contain a link asking the victim to enter their account details. Once the information is provided, the criminal could use it to access the victim’s account and steal money.

Another concern is the use of AI to imitate people’s voices and identities. Criminals may create fake audio recordings or images to convince victims that they are communicating with someone they know. This can make online scams more difficult to recognise and prevent.

Despite these dangers, AI also has many positive uses. In healthcare, it can help medical professionals analyse information and identify possible health problems. In education, it can assist students in understanding difficult subjects and support teachers in preparing learning materials. Farmers can use AI-powered tools to monitor weather conditions, identify crop diseases and improve agricultural productivity.

Businesses can also benefit from AI by improving customer service, automating repetitive tasks and analysing information to make better decisions. Financial institutions can use AI systems to identify unusual transactions and detect suspicious activities before they cause serious financial losses.

However, ordinary internet users must take precautions when using digital platforms. People should avoid clicking suspicious links, sharing passwords or revealing verification codes to strangers. They should also verify unexpected requests for money, even when the messages appear to come from friends or family members.

Businesses, on the other hand, should strengthen their security systems, train employees to recognise online scams and protect customers’ personal information. Using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication and updating software regularly can also reduce the risk of cyberattacks.

In conclusion, Kenya’s warning highlights the importance of balancing technological progress with digital security. Artificial intelligence can contribute to economic growth, improve public services and make everyday activities easier. However, its misuse can expose individuals and organisations to serious risks. Governments, businesses and citizens must therefore work together to promote responsible AI use and improve cybersecurity awareness. By taking the necessary precautions, society can enjoy the benefits of artificial intelligence while reducing the dangers associated with cybercrime.