MTN Group, Africa’s largest mobile telecommunications operator, has officially confirmed a cybersecurity breach that led to unauthorized access to customer data in select markets across the continent.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Johannesburg-based telecom giant acknowledged that an unidentified third party had infiltrated segments of its information systems.
While the exact scope of the data breach remains under investigation, MTN stated that critical infrastructure like its core network, billing platforms, and mobile financial services remains intact and fully operational.
“At this point, we have no evidence to suggest any direct compromise of customer wallets or accounts,” the company stated, seeking to reassure stakeholders amid growing concerns over digital security vulnerabilities.
MTN’s cybersecurity protocols were immediately activated upon detection of the breach and the company also notified the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) as part of its incident response measures.
With over 290 million subscribers across 19 markets, MTN’s exposure to cybersecurity threats has become an increasing point of concern for investors and regulators alike.
As digital adoption accelerates across Africa, the safeguarding of customer data and infrastructure has taken on new urgency.
While the telecoms firm has not yet disclosed which specific markets were impacted or the number of customers affected, it has assured ongoing collaboration with forensic experts to assess the breach and reinforce its defenses.
The company’s stock on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) remained relatively stable following the announcement.
As the investigation unfolds, MTN has committed to maintaining transparency with stakeholders and updating the public as more information becomes available.
