Kenyan websites face growing threat as Hackers turn to Artificial intelligence

Kenyan websites are facing a growing cybersecurity threat as hackers increasingly turn to artificial intelligence (AI) to carry out attacks. The development has raised concerns about the safety of online information and the security of businesses that depend on digital platforms.

According to a report published by Business Daily on November 3, 2026, cyberattacks targeting Kenyan websites and web-based applications have increased by 163 per cent in one year. Data from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) shows that attacks rose to 27.4 million in the three months to September 2026, compared to 10.4 million during the same period last year.

The growing number of attacks has been linked to the misuse of artificial intelligence by cybercriminals. AI has made it easier for hackers to identify weaknesses in websites and find ways of exploiting them. Tasks that previously took weeks to complete can now be carried out within hours.

Robert Ng'etich, a threat intelligence expert at NTT Data, explained that hackers are using AI to improve the way they identify weaknesses in digital systems. This means that organisations have less time to notice and respond to potential threats.

Although artificial intelligence has brought many benefits to businesses, its misuse is creating new challenges. Criminals can take advantage of vulnerable websites to access private information, interfere with online services and compromise customer accounts.

For Kenyan businesses, the consequences can be serious. A successful cyberattack may expose customers' personal details, financial information and login credentials. It can also interrupt business operations, cause financial losses and damage a company's reputation. Customers who lose confidence in a business may choose to take their services elsewhere.

Small businesses should also pay attention to these developments. Having a small website or operating on a limited budget does not mean that an organisation is free from cyber threats. Any business that collects customer information or offers services online needs to take its digital security seriously.

Cybersecurity experts have continued to emphasise the importance of basic security measures. Businesses are encouraged to update their website software regularly, use strong passwords and introduce additional verification when accessing important accounts. They should also monitor their online platforms and address security weaknesses before they are exploited.

The Communications Authority has also pointed to inadequate software updates and limited awareness of online threats as some of the factors contributing to the growing problem.

As Kenya continues to embrace digital services, protecting websites and online platforms has become increasingly important. Businesses must understand that cybersecurity is not just a responsibility for technology companies but a necessary part of running any modern organisation.

Artificial intelligence is changing the nature of cybercrime, and businesses that fail to take security seriously could find themselves paying a heavy price.