Chats, hacks and cyber traps: social apps becoming risky zone

IN the ever-evolving landscape of workplace communication, the convenience and familiarity of informal messaging platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram have become indispensable tools for many organisations.

- IOL REPORTER

However, their widespread popularity among employees raises significant concerns related to cybersecurity, as highlighted by the 2025 KnowBe4 Africa Annual Cybersecurity Survey.

The findings reveal that an overwhelming 93% of African respondents utilise WhatsApp for work communications, eclipsing traditional email and even Microsoft Teams.

But what can organisations do to safeguard themselves against potential data leakage and other evolving threats?

According to Anna Collard, Senior Vice President of Content Strategy and Evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa, the comfort of using these applications is a driving force behind their integration in workplaces.

However, the convenience of informal platforms can lead to detrimental risks regarding control and compliance.

Informal messaging, formal risks Recent incidents have illuminated the dangers associated with using these informal channels for professional communications.