Thursday, September 10

MSU Student Arrested For US$1.1m Cybertheft After Hacking CABS

MSU Student Arrested For US$1.1m Cybertheft After Hacking CABS

CABS Cybertheft Case: MSU Student Faces US$1.1m Hacking Allegations

A Midlands State University (MSU) final-year Computer Science student has appeared in court over allegations that he used malware and remote-access software to siphon more than US$1.1 million (about R18.4 million) from Central Africa Building Society (CABS).

Sabelo Malunga, 24, appeared before Harare regional magistrate Francis Mapfumo facing a hacking charge. He was remanded in custody until Monday, 31 August 2026, for his bail application.

The allegations stem from the period when Malunga was working as an Information Technology intern at CABS between November 2025 and 23 February 2026.

The State, led by Blessed Songozo, alleges that Malunga exploited access obtained during his internship to interfere with CABS banking systems and facilitate fraudulent transactions.

 

 

 

 

CABS Cyberattack Allegedly Started With Remote-Access Software

The Herald reports that CABS began investigating suspicious activity after Visa flagged two international ATM transactions involving CABS-issued debit cards on 27 March 2026.

The bank allegedly blocked the affected accounts, but had already suffered actual prejudice of US$210,500 (about R3.4 million). The court heard that none of the money from those transactions had been recovered.

A deeper internal investigation on 13 April allegedly uncovered multiple malware infections on CABS servers.

The State alleges that the malware was being used to create fraudulent ZIPIT transactions and inject them directly into Zimswitch, allowing the transactions to bypass CABS’ internal controls.

“The malware was creating new ZIPIT transactions and injecting them directly into Zimswitch.”

A subsequent reconciliation allegedly identified 1,911 fraudulent ZIPIT transactions valued at US$925,679 (about R15 million).

 

 

 

The transactions were allegedly sent to several financial platforms and institutions, including EcoCash, InnBucks, CBZ and Ecobank.CABS subsequently engaged South African digital forensics company MWR to contain the suspected malware, investigate the breach and determine how the systems had been compromised.

Student Allegedly Maintained Access After Internship

The prosecution alleges that Malunga downloaded an application called SUPREMO onto a company-issued laptop on 23 January 2026 without authorisation.

According to the State, he allegedly concealed the programme within system files to prevent it from being detected.

SUPREMO is a remote-access tool. Prosecutors allege it gave Malunga the ability to access CABS systems remotely.

 

 

 

The State further alleges that the access continued after his internship ended on 23 February.

Investigators allegedly found evidence linking Malunga to the cyberattack during the subsequent forensic examination.

He is accused of installing malware that allegedly facilitated unlawful transaction authorisations, fraudulent ZIPIT transfers into Zimswitch, fictitious transactions routed through an Ecobank integration and the creation of fake telegraphic transfers.

The State alleges that the combined fraudulent activity resulted in CABS suffering actual prejudice of US$1,136,179 (about R18.7 million).

No money has been recovered so far.

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How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Jobs, Business, and Everyday Life Across the World

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming industries across the globe, creating new opportunities for businesses, workers, and consumers. From healthcare and banking to transportation and online shopping, AI-powered technology is becoming part of everyday life in countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Zimbabwe. Companies are investing billions into machine learning, automation, and advanced digital systems designed to improve efficiency and customer experiences.

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One of the biggest areas where AI is making an impact is the workplace. Businesses are using artificial intelligence tools to automate repetitive tasks, analyze data faster, and improve decision-making processes. Customer service chatbots, fraud detection systems, and smart recommendation engines are now common in industries such as banking, e-commerce, and telecommunications. In Africa, startups are increasingly adopting AI technology to improve agriculture, mobile banking, online education, and healthcare access in underserved communities.

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The healthcare industry has also seen major improvements through AI-powered systems. Hospitals and medical researchers are using artificial intelligence to analyze patient data, assist with disease detection, and improve treatment recommendations. AI is helping doctors diagnose illnesses more accurately while reducing delays in medical services. In countries facing healthcare worker shortages, digital health solutions are helping bridge gaps in medical access and support.

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Education systems are also evolving with the growth of artificial intelligence. Students can now access personalized learning platforms, language translation tools, and AI tutoring services online. Teachers are using technology to simplify lesson planning and improve student engagement. In developing countries, online learning tools are expanding educational opportunities for young people who previously had limited access to quality resources.

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Cybersecurity experts believe AI will play a major role in protecting businesses and individuals from online threats. Artificial intelligence systems can detect suspicious activity, monitor networks, and identify cyberattacks faster than traditional security methods. As digital transactions continue growing worldwide, protecting personal information and financial data remains a top priority for businesses and governments alike.

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Despite its advantages, artificial intelligence also raises concerns about privacy, misinformation, and job displacement. Experts warn that some industries may experience significant workforce changes as automation increases. However, many analysts believe AI will create new careers in software development, cybersecurity, robotics, and digital infrastructure management. Governments and educational institutions are being encouraged to invest in digital skills training to prepare workers for the future economy.

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Technology leaders predict that artificial intelligence will continue reshaping global economies over the next decade. Businesses that adapt quickly to digital transformation are expected to remain competitive in rapidly changing markets. Consumers are also becoming more dependent on AI-powered applications for entertainment, shopping, communication, and financial services.

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As artificial intelligence continues expanding across industries, experts believe innovation, regulation, and responsible development will determine how societies benefit from the technology in the years ahead. Countries investing in digital infrastructure, internet access, and technology education are expected to play an important role in the future of the global digital economy.

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Home Equity Loan vs HELOC: Which One Is Better?

Homeowners who have built equity may be able to borrow against their home. Two common options are a home equity loan and a home equity line of credit, also called a HELOC.

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A home equity loan gives you a lump sum of money with a fixed interest rate and fixed monthly payments. This can be useful for one-time expenses such as home renovations, medical bills, debt consolidation, or major repairs.

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A HELOC works more like a credit card. You get access to a credit line and can borrow as needed during the draw period. HELOCs often have variable interest rates, which means your payment can change over time.

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The best choice depends on your needs. If you know exactly how much money you need and want predictable payments, a home equity loan may be better. If you want flexibility and do not need all the money at once, a HELOC may be a better fit.

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Both options use your home as collateral. This means if you cannot repay the loan, your home could be at risk. That is why you should borrow carefully.

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Home equity financing may be used for home improvements, which can increase property value. However, using home equity for vacations, luxury purchases, or short-term spending can be risky.

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Before applying, compare interest rates, fees, repayment terms, minimum payments, and closing costs. Also ask whether the rate is fixed or variable.

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Your credit score, income, debt, home value, and available equity will affect approval.

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A home equity loan and HELOC can both be powerful financial tools, but they should be used responsibly. The right choice depends on whether you need stability, flexibility, or a combination of both.

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