https://unisapressjournals.co.za/index.php/sajs <p><strong>Open Access</strong></p> <p>The journal publishes peer reviewed articles and papers that report on and analyse the latest research and innovation in the field of security studies. It seeks to address broader societal issues of importance to law, safety and security of citizens and criminal justice-related topics. It pursues articles that define and reflect the various aspects of security and encourages researchers to generate innovative contributions to the knowledge economy in a scientific way. It also publishes reviews and commentaries on significant books or current issues and cover informative aspects like editorials, topical reviews, book reviews, and scholarly correspondence.</p> Unisa Press en-US Southern African Journal of Security 3005-4222 https://unisapressjournals.co.za/index.php/sajs/article/view/15157 <p>The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is an era characterised by accelerated technological progress. Even though access to 4IR technologies is not yet widespread, in the current era, 4IR technologies affect socio-economic activities and digital business. The pace of digital transformation also has some implications for cybersecurity. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of these 4IR technologies on cyberattacks in South Africa. The study used qualitative data collection methods, namely, interviews and document collection. Purposive and convenience sampling were used to select the study participants. An analysis of the collected data yielded four major findings. A major tenet of these findings was that there is a correlation between the advancement of 4IR technologies and the rapid increase in cyberattacks in South Africa. The study has made theoretical and practical contributions as well as some essential contributions to digital transformation and cybersecurity theories. The findings and recommendations of the study can be used in other countries in southern Africa. One recommendation is for business executives to implement certain measures to strengthen cybersecurity in their organisations. Further, policymakers in South Africa are advised to ensure that public policies and law enforcement agencies are able to use advanced technologies to prevent and deal with cyberattacks.</p> Rabelani Dagada Copyright (c) 2024 Rabelani Dagada https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2024-03-06 2024-03-06 27 pages 27 pages 10.25159/3005-4222/15157 https://unisapressjournals.co.za/index.php/sajs/article/view/15320 <p class="Abstract"><span lang="EN-GB">In addressing the pressing issue of cybersecurity risks, it is imperative to situate academics’ focus within the specific context of university libraries in Africa. The realm of information management and academic resources in this region is not exempt from the escalating challenges posed by cyberthreats. It has become evident that a gap exists in understanding and effectively mitigating these risks within the unique environment of African university libraries. This article reports on a study which indicated that academic libraries may face threats, such as line tapping, improper system processing, and the use of malicious software. These threats bear significant consequences, such as the potential loss of sensitive data, damage to reputation, and financial losses. The study therefore examined cybersecurity risks in African university libraries and the need to promote cyberethical practices. The study employed a qualitative research approach based on the explanatory research method. In so doing, the use of a systematic literature review was adopted to examine cybersecurity risks in African university libraries and the imperative to promote cyberethical practices. Using a purposive sampling technique, the researchers collected articles published between 2015 and 2023 on the databases of Emerald and ResearchGate for the review. The study findings illuminated the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity risks, encompassing issues such as malware attacks, phishing, ransomware, and identity theft. These risks, if unaddressed, can lead to severe consequences, including intellectual property theft, reputational damage, and financial losses. Therefore, the study recommends that African university libraries should prioritise cybersecurity education for both staff and users; must develop and regularly update comprehensive cyberethics policies that address the unique challenges faced in the African context; and should explore avenues for improving their technological infrastructure. Investments in advanced security systems, regular software updates, and the adoption of emerging technologies will strengthen African university libraries’ resilience against cyberthreats.</span></p> Bolaji Oladokun Emmanuel Oloniruha Deborah Mazah Obediah Okechukwu Copyright (c) 2024 Bolaji David Oladokun, Emmanuel Oloniruha, Deborah Mazah, Obediah Chukwuka Okechukwu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 2024-03-06 2024-03-06 14 pages 14 pages 10.25159/3005-4222/15320