NGO unveils AI-powered platform to combat cyber attacks

Webfala Digital Skills for all Initiative (WDSFAI), a non-profit organisation, has unveiled ‘LinkGuard’, an artificial intelligence powered platform designed to protect internet users from phishing links and cyber threats.

In a statement on Saturday, Hameed Muritala, the NGO’s director of communications and strategy, said the platform was launched following months of research, consultation and designing.

Muritala said the introduction of the innovative solution marked a significant milestone in the organisation’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital security and literacy across Africa.

Speaking during the launching of the platform, Nafisat Bakare, executive director of WDSFAI, lamented the alarming rise of cyber threats in Africa, particularly phishing attacks, saying the growing concern prompted her organisation to develop a solution to tackle this menace.

“Phishing attacks are a daily threat, with the average person encountering multiple malicious links disguised as trusted communications. These attacks put individuals and businesses at risk, often leading to financial loss and data theft,” Bakare said.

“We felt the urgent need for a solution tailored to the African context, where digital literacy levels vary, and many users may not fully understand the risks associated with online interactions. This was why we created LinkGuard. Our platform is built to detect phishing and scam URLs, helping users make informed decisions about their online safety.

“Together, we can empower Africans to take control of their digital security and inspire a safer internet experience across the continent.”

While performing a demonstration of how the platform works, Wale Bakare, the organisation’s director of programmes and partnerships, said LinkGuard employs cutting-edge AI technology to scan and analyse links in real-time, providing users with immediate feedback on whether a link is safe or risky.

“The platform’s user-friendly interface allows individuals to simply input a URL and receive a confidence level percentage indicating its safety. This intuitive system aims to make digital security accessible to all, regardless of technical expertise,” Bakare said.

“In addition to detection, LinkGuard’s broader mission is to foster digital literacy and cyber awareness. Our goal is not only to offer a tool but to educate and empower every internet user across Africa to protect themselves online. We want to build knowledge, confidence, and resilience in our communities.

“LinkGuard is also committed to collaborating with the wider security community to share data on detected threats, creating a network to stay ahead of evolving phishing tactics. This community-based approach ensures that the platform continuously adapts to the changing cyber threat landscape.”

Muritala said with the launch of LinkGuard, “WDSFAI is taking a significant step towards creating a safer and more inclusive digital environment for Africans. The platform’s ability to detect phishing and scam URLs promises to be a game-changer in the fight against cyber threats.”