Telecom Namibia Hit by Ransomware, Sensitive Data Leaked

2024-12-18

Learn about the critical importance of refusing to negotiate with cybercriminals and how Check Point CloudGuard can strengthen defenses against ransomware attacks.

Telecom Namibia, a state-owned telecom company, suffered a ransomware attack resulting in the leak of sensitive customer data, including information about top government officials. The hackers, known as Hunters International, released the data after Telecom Namibia refused to pay the ransom. The breach involved nearly 500,000 pieces of personal and financial data. The company is collaborating with security officials to mitigate further impact and has warned against sharing the leaked information, urging customers to change their passwords and remain vigilant. Ransomware typically involves locking data until a ransom is paid, but Telecom Namibia has firmly stated it will not negotiate with the attackers.

Key Facts

Risks:

Sensitive Data, Malware

Keywords:

Ransomware, Telecom Namibia, Data Leak, Cyberattack, Hunters International

CVE:

N/A

Affected:

Telecom Namibia

Article Body

Namibia Telecom Hit by Ransomware Attack

Namibia's state-owned telecom company, Telecom Namibia, has experienced a ransomware attack that has led to the unauthorized release of sensitive customer data. The breach is reported to include personal and financial information of top government officials and other clients.

Attack Details

The attack was carried out by a group known as Hunters International. They released the stolen data after Telecom Namibia refused to negotiate or pay the demanded ransom. This refusal is in line with the company's stance against engaging with cybercriminals, even when faced with threats of data leakage.

Scale of the Breach

Local media sources have reported that nearly 500,000 pieces of information were stolen. The data includes sensitive customer records such as personal identification details, addresses, and banking information. This data has reportedly been leaked onto the dark web and shared on social media platforms.

Company Response and Actions

Telecom Namibia discovered the data leak last Friday and has since been working with security officials to minimize further exposure. The company is also making efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice. They have issued warnings to the public, emphasizing that sharing the leaked information is a criminal offense.

Precautionary Measures for Customers

Telecom Namibia has advised customers to change passwords on their personal devices and to avoid money transfers in suspicious circumstances. These steps are crucial in protecting personal information and preventing further unauthorized access.

Understanding Ransomware

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that locks data and devices, demanding a ransom for their release. Typically, these attackers pressure victims to pay in cryptocurrency to an anonymous digital wallet. However, paying the ransom does not guarantee that the data will not be leaked.

Telecom Namibia's CEO, Stanley Shanapinda, has made it clear that the company will not negotiate with the attackers. He emphasized that the demanded sums are unaffordable and that even if paid, there is no certainty that the data would remain secure.

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https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ce3l509e6x7o