Telecommunications giant MTN Group has confirmed a cybersecurity breach that led to unauthorised access to the personal data of some of its customers in specific countries. Although the company has not yet revealed which countries were affected, it has assured customers that its core systems and financial platforms remain secure and uncompromised.
On April 24, 2025, MTN issued a statement regarding a security breach linked to an intrusion by an unknown third party. This individual claims to have accessed certain parts of the company’s systems. However, MTN emphasised that there is currently no evidence suggesting that customers’ accounts or mobile money (MoMo) wallets have been directly compromised. “An unknown third party has claimed to have accessed data related to parts of our systems,” the statement said. “At this stage, we have no information indicating that customers’ accounts and wallets have been directly compromised.”
MTN further assured that its critical infrastructure—including its core network, billing systems, and financial services platforms—remains secure and fully operational. The group said it responded swiftly by activating its cybersecurity protocols and notifying law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks. Authorities in affected countries have also been informed, and MTN is cooperating with ongoing investigations.
The company has begun notifying impacted customers in line with local legal and regulatory requirements. It also issued general advice to customers on safeguarding their information amid the breach. “Customers are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow regular security measures,” the company said, adding that individuals can place fraud alerts on their credit reports and should ensure that apps and devices remain up to date.
MTN advised customers to use strong, unique passwords and be cautious of suspicious messages or links. “Do not disclose information such as passwords, PINs and OTPs when asked to do so by phone, text message or email,” the company cautioned. It also recommended activating multifactor authentication where available. Emphasising its commitment to transparency and customer protection, MTN reiterated that data privacy remains its top priority. “We will continue to contain and manage this matter carefully,” the statement said. “MTN remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of our systems and the trust placed in us by our customers and other stakeholders.”
By: Kweku Zurek
