MTN Group has alerted stakeholders that it has encountered a cyber security incident that resulted in unauthorised access to some customers’ personal information in specific markets.
Nonetheless, Africa’s largest telco, stated that its core network, billing systems, and financial services infrastructure are secure and fully operational.
It went on to say: “An unknown third-party has claimed to have accessed data linked to parts of our systems. At this stage we do not have any information to suggest that customer accounts and wallets have been directly compromised.”
In a statement, MTN Group said it “Immediately activated its cyber security response processes including informing the South African Police Service and the Hawks in South Africa.”
MTN Group has its headquarters in South Africa, which requires it to report to local law enforcement institutions.
The company said: “We also informed the relevant country authorities and will continue to update them on an ongoing basis while working closely with them and law enforcement agencies in supporting their investigations.
“We are in the process of notifying affected customers in compliance with local legal and regulatory obligations.”
As a reminder, MTN Group said, customers are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow regular security measures, such as:
To mitigate any fraudulent consequences, a fraud alert can be placed on an individual’s credit report at any of the major credit bureaus.
Keep MTN, Mobile Money and banking apps and devices updated.
Use strong, unique passwords for accounts and change them regularly.
Be cautious of unexpected messages and do not click on suspicious links.
Do not disclose information such as passwords, PINs and OTP when asked to do so by phone, text message or email.
Where multifactor authentication is available, it should be activated.
It continued: “The privacy of information is our top priority and MTN remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of our systems and the trust placed in us by our customers and other stakeholders. We will continue to contain and manage this matter carefully.”