In a brazen assault, Telecom Namibia has fallen prey to a devastating ransomware attack orchestrated by the notorious hacking group, Hunters International.
The audacious breach has resulted in the unauthorized release of sensitive customer data, including personal and financial information of high-ranking government officials.
According to reports, the hackers pilfered nearly 500,000 records, with some of the stolen data being shared on social media platforms.
The attack has sent shockwaves throughout the country, with outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba condemning the incident as a national security issue that demands urgent attention.
Telecom Namibia’s CEO, Stanley Shanapinda, has reaffirmed the company’s steadfast stance against negotiating with hackers, emphasizing that “paying a ransom offers no guarantee of confidentiality.”
This principled approach is laudable, but it also underscores the gravity of the situation.
Telecom Namibia is working closely with security officials to contain further exposure and prevent potential fallout as the investigation into the breach continues.
The company has urged its customers to take immediate action to safeguard their personal information, including updating passwords, monitoring financial accounts, and refraining from circulating the leaked data.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the escalating threat of ransomware attacks and the imperative need for robust cybersecurity measures.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting sensitive data and preventing such breaches.
The consequences of inaction can be severe, as Telecom Namibia’s customers are now painfully aware.
