In the wake of a major cyber-attack, the government of Malawi has managed to restore its passport system. This comes a few weeks after the system was breached by unidentified perpetrators. Following the attack, President Lazarus Chakwera issued a directive for an immediate investigation.
The President expressed his desire for the law enforcement agencies to unearth the details of the cyber attack on the e-passport issuance function of the immigration and citizenship services department. He clearly stated that anyone found responsible for the breach would be subject to the full force of the law.
The President shared that the attackers were unidentified ‘mercenaries’ demanding a ransom. This act of cyber terrorism amounted to a ‘major violation in Malawi’s national security’, as the hackers had gained control of the nation’s passport printing system.
Charles Kalumo, the Director General of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, publicly announced the restoration of the passport system earlier this week. This implies that the department is ready to resume its e-passay issuance services, gradually commencing passport printing in Lilongwe this week. The services will subsequently be expanded to the rest of the regions.
The Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, in a statement, appreciated the patience exhibited by Malawians during the period where the system was under repair. The statement also highlighted the efforts of local experts from various entities who worked tirelessly to restore the system within the timeline set by the President.
