Banks and government agencies in Africa have become the most affected by information and communication technology (ICT) scams, according to Africa Cyber Security Strategic Alliance.

The organisation said there are increased attacks on banks, financial institution and government agencies in Africa by cyber criminals.

Africa Cyber Security Strategic Alliance manager Sammy Kioko said at a press briefing in Lusaka yesterday that efforts are underway to curb the increased incidences of cybercrime in Africa targeted at financial institutions and government agencies.

The Alliance plans to have a Southern Africa Banking and ICT summit in Zambia on 30 April during which it expects to discuss much needed front line measures required to protect infrastructure within organisations and systems from current Information Technology (IT) related threats.

"The event will help all players to identify the technical, environmental and business risks that could lead to service vulnerability, weaken consumer confidence and ultimately, cause brand damage and revenue decline," Kioko said.

The Bankers Association of Zambia chief executive officer Leonard Mwanza said banks are a primary target of cybercrime hence the need to put in place interventions to protect public funds and build trust in customers.

He said cyber crime scares people from depositing money because safety of their money is not guaranteed.

Zambia's banking sector has particularly been hit hard by cyber crime in the midst of reports detailing the theft of millions of dollars of customers' money from banks and Automated Teller machines (ATMs).