MTN Group has confirmed that it recently experienced a cybersecurity incident that led to unauthorized access to personal information of some customers in certain markets. It however did not list the affected markets. The company emphasized that its core network, billing systems, and financial services infrastructure were not affected and remain fully operational.
In a statement released last week Thursday, MTN disclosed that an unknown third party had claimed to have accessed parts of its systems. However, the company noted that there is no evidence at this stage to suggest that customers’ accounts or mobile money wallets were directly compromised.
Responding swiftly, MTN said it immediately activated its cybersecurity response protocols and notified relevant law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks. Authorities in the affected countries were also informed and are being kept updated as investigations progress.
“We are in the process of notifying affected customers in compliance with local legal and regulatory obligations,” the company said, adding that it is cooperating fully with law enforcement and regulatory bodies.
As a precaution, MTN advised customers across its markets to stay vigilant and observe standard security practices. These include placing fraud alerts with credit bureaus, updating apps and devices, using strong and unique passwords, being cautious with suspicious links and messages, and enabling multifactor authentication where available.
The Group reiterated its commitment to protecting customer data, stating, “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 stakeholders.”
MTN said it will continue to carefully contain and manage the situation while supporting ongoing investigations.
MTN is currently present in 17 countries including South Africa, Nigeria and boasts of over 290 million subscribers across its operating countries.
