MTN has confirmed a cybersecurity breach that allowed unauthorized access to personal information of customers in certain markets, though it assures users that its core network and financial services infrastructure remain secure.
The incident occurred late Thursday and involved a third party gaining access to parts of MTN’s systems, raising concerns about potential data exposure.
However, in a statement released by the company, MTN said there is no current evidence that customers’ accounts or mobile wallets were directly compromised.
“Core network, billing systems, and financial services infrastructure are secure and fully operational,” MTN emphasized.
Upon discovering the breach, MTN immediately activated its cybersecurity response protocols. Authorities in South Africa—including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks—have been informed, along with relevant regulators in the affected countries.
MTN is currently working closely with these agencies and has started the process of notifying affected customers in line with local laws and data protection requirements.
As a precaution, the company urged its users to take key cybersecurity steps. These include placing fraud alerts on credit reports, regularly updating their apps, using strong and unique passwords, avoiding suspicious links or messages, and enabling multi-factor authentication on their accounts.
“Customer privacy and data protection remain our highest priorities,” the company said, adding that it is managing the situation carefully and will provide updates as more facts emerge.
MTN reiterated its commitment to maintaining customer trust, assuring stakeholders that it continues to take all necessary actions to safeguard its systems.
