Rwanda Reports Decline in Attempted Bank Frauds Despite Rising Cyber Threats

Kigali, 19 March 2026 - Rwanda recorded around 3,000 attempted bank frauds in 2025, down from 5,000 cases the previous year, according to the Central Bank. Governor Soraya Hakuziyaremye announced the figures during a press conference following discussions on monetary policy and financial stability, noting that while cyber-related threats persist, overall incidents have declined. She confirmed that authorities are investigating a recent attempted fraud targeting Equity Bank Rwanda, adding that some of the affected funds have already been recovered. Hakuziyaremye attributed many of the incidents to the growing use of digital financial services, which has introduced new vulnerabilities even as the sector modernizes. “Cyber-related theft exists, but what matters is how we protect ourselves and respond when incidents occur,” she said, emphasizing the importance of prevention and accountability. The Central Bank also indicated that mechanisms are in place to ensure that affected customers are reimbursed within a short period, with efforts underway to return funds within seven days in confirmed cases. Rwanda’s financial sector includes 11 commercial banks, alongside microfinance institutions and SACCOs, all of which have strengthened cybersecurity measures in recent years. Globally, cybercrime remains a growing challenge, with estimates suggesting that a cyberattack occurs every few seconds, underscoring the need for continued vigilance.