55% of Cyber Attacks Hit North America, MEA Risks Are Growing

Interactive intrusions where attackers use legitimate credentials and tools instead of malware are becoming the dominant form of cyberattack globally. The regional breakdown shows just how concentrated this threat has become, with North America accounting for the largest share at 55%. But beyond the headline number, the data reveals important trends for the Middle East and Africa.

The Middle East: High-Value, Targeted Attacks

The Middle East represents around 4% of global interactive intrusions. While that may seem modest, the region’s strategic importance (especially in energy, finance, and critical infrastructure) makes it a high-value target. Attacks here are often more targeted than widespread, focusing on gaining persistent access to sensitive systems rather than executing large-scale disruptions. As a result, even a smaller share of activity can carry outsized economic and geopolitical implications.

Africa: Rapid Digitization Meets Security Gaps

Africa, at roughly 2%, shows a similar pattern but for different reasons. Lower digital saturation in some markets limits overall attack volume, but rapid digitization in fintech and mobile services is quickly expanding the attack surface. Threat actors are increasingly exploiting gaps in cybersecurity maturity, using interactive techniques to move quietly within systems that may lack advanced detection tools.

Read our Special Report on The Future of Fintech in Africa here!

The Attack Method: Stealth Over Malware

What stands out across both regions is the nature of these attacks. Instead of relying on obvious malware, attackers are blending into normal operations—logging in, moving laterally, and escalating privileges without triggering traditional alarms. This makes detection significantly harder and raises the stakes for organizations that rely heavily on legacy defenses.

The Outlook

In short, while the Middle East and Africa account for a smaller slice of global activity, the risks are growing. As digital infrastructure expands, so too will the need for more advanced, behavior-based security strategies.