Influence Operations

Deep dives into influence operations and their impact on society.

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Understanding Cognitive Biases in Cyber Threat Hunting

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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Cognitive biases are systematic patterns of deviation from norm or rationality in judgment, which can significantly affect decision-making processes in various fields, including cyber threat hunting and cyber influence operations. This series will explore key cognitive biases, their implications, and real-world examples relevant to both South Africa and a global audience. What is Cognitive Bias? […]

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Real-World Examples of Cognitive Biases Affecting Cybersecurity in South Africa

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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Cognitive biases can significantly impact decision-making processes in cybersecurity, leading to vulnerabilities and ineffective responses to threats. Here are some real-world examples of cognitive biases affecting cybersecurity in South Africa:

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Notable Cases of Optimism Bias Leading to Cybersecurity Breaches in South Africa

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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Optimism bias, the tendency to believe that negative events are less likely to happen to oneself compared to others, can lead organizations to underestimate risks and vulnerabilities in their cybersecurity posture. Here are notable cases in South Africa where optimism bias contributed to cybersecurity breaches: 1. The Transnet Ransomware Attack (2021) In July 2021, Transnet, […]

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Interaction of Optimism Bias with Other Cognitive Biases in Cybersecurity Contexts in South Africa

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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In cybersecurity contexts, particularly in South Africa, optimism bias can interact with several other cognitive biases, compounding the risks and vulnerabilities organizations face. Understanding these interactions can help organizations better prepare for and respond to cyber threats. Here are some key interactions: 1. Optimism Bias and Confirmation Bias – Interaction: Optimism bias leads individuals and […]

The Xhosa Wars Aka The Cape Frontier Wars or The Kaffir Wars: A Historical Overview

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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The Xhosa Wars, also known as the Cape Frontier Wars or the Kaffir Wars, were a series of nine conflicts that occurred between 1779 and 1879 between the Xhosa Kingdom and British colonial forces, as well as the Trekboers. This prolonged military resistance against European colonialism is a significant chapter in South African history, reflecting […]

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Impact of the Xhosa Wars on the Political Landscape of South Africa

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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The Xhosa Wars, spanning from 1779 to 1879, were pivotal in shaping the political landscape of South Africa. These conflicts not only altered territorial boundaries but also influenced the relationships between various ethnic groups, colonial powers, and the governance structures that emerged in the region. Territorial Changes and Colonial Expansion The Xhosa Wars facilitated significant […]

Main Strategies Used by the Xhosa and Their Opponents During the Xhosa Wars

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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The Xhosa Wars, a series of conflicts between the Xhosa Kingdom and British colonial forces, as well as Trekboers, involved various military and diplomatic strategies from both sides. Understanding these strategies provides insight into how each party sought to achieve its objectives during this prolonged struggle. Strategies of the Xhosa 1. Guerrilla Warfare: – The […]

British Use of Propaganda During the Xhosa Wars

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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The British employed various propaganda strategies to shape public opinion during the Xhosa Wars, influencing perceptions both at home and in the colonies. These efforts were crucial in garnering support for military actions and justifying colonial expansion. Media Coverage and Public Sentiment 1. Press Reports:– The conflicts were extensively covered in British newspapers, which reported […]

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Specific Military Tactics Adopted by the Trekboers in Response to the Xhosa Wars

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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The Xhosa Wars prompted significant adaptations in the military tactics of the Trekboers (Afrikaner settlers) as they engaged in conflicts with the Xhosa and navigated their relationship with British colonial authorities.

Notable Examples of British Propaganda That Backfired During the Xhosa Wars

Thabo Makhele October 5, 2024

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While British propaganda during the Xhosa Wars was largely aimed at justifying colonial expansion and garnering public support, there were notable instances where these efforts backfired, leading to unintended consequences that complicated British objectives. 1. The Death of King Hintsa One of the most significant propaganda missteps occurred with the killing of King Hintsa ka […]