Namibia’s state-owned telecom company, Telecom Namibia, has suffered a significant ransomware attack, leading to the leak of sensitive customer data, including information reportedly linked to top government officials.
The breach was orchestrated by a hacker group known as Hunters International, who released the stolen data after the company refused to negotiate or pay the demanded ransom.
Telecom Namibia revealed on Monday that it discovered last Friday some of its customers’ data had been leaked on the dark web. The stolen data reportedly includes nearly 500,000 records of personal and financial information belonging to senior government officials, ministries, and other company clients.
Outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba condemned the attack, emphasizing that cybersecurity is a matter of national security. “This issue must be dealt with the urgency it deserves,” said presidential spokesman Alfredo Hengari, as quoted by The Namibian.
Initially, Telecom Namibia believed no sensitive data had been compromised. However, further investigation revealed the leak of critical personal identification details, addresses, and banking information. Some of the leaked information has already been circulated on social media.
Chief Executive Stanley Shanapinda warned the public against sharing the stolen data, stating:
“We caution that anyone that uses and/or circulates any personal information that has been leaked will be committing a criminal offence.”
The company is now working closely with security agencies to contain the breach, minimize further exposure, and bring the perpetrators to justice.
