The South African Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) encountered a security breach when an unauthorized party attempted system access, prompting a shutdown to contain the breach. While the GEPF asserts that no data compromise occurred and pensioner payments remain unaffected, conflicting reports suggest payment disruptions since February 12, 2024. Despite assertions from the GEPF emphasizing the shutdown as a security measure, sources indicate ongoing payment delays and service outages, including the closure of call centers and walk-in centers.
Amidst the confusion surrounding the outage notices, the GEPF initially attributed closures to technical issues on February 14, which later shifted to a burst water pipe disrupting operations. However, subsequent updates revealed the closures were due to GPAA system shutdowns following detected unauthorized access attempts. Despite efforts to restore systems and prevent breaches, the GEPF advises against visiting offices until systems are fully operational.
Despite the reassurance of data safety and ongoing updates, the GEPF faces scrutiny over conflicting statements regarding the nature and impact of the security breach. The organization’s evolving explanations for the outages underscore the complexities of managing and communicating cybersecurity incidents in real-time. As restoration efforts continue, affected members await clarity on the timeline for system recovery and the resolution of payment disruptions.
