The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJ&CD) in South Africa faces a cyber security incident affecting child maintenance payments, prompting the suspension of its electronic payment system. As investigations proceed to assess potential breaches, beneficiaries are advised to collect manual payments from their nearest court until the electronic service is fully restored. The department assures the public of its commitment to bolstering security measures and apologizes for any inconvenience caused.
Previously targeted by a ransomware attack in 2021, the DJ&CD endured encrypted information systems, disrupting various electronic services, including bail services and website functionalities. As a result, the department vowed to allocate funds from its budget to enhance cyber security defenses, aiming to avert future cyber threats. The ransomware attack led to regulatory repercussions, including a fine of R5 million for breaching South Africa’s data privacy law.
Cybersecurity challenges persist across South African government entities, with cyber criminals increasingly targeting them. The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research estimates significant financial losses to the economy due to cybercrime, emphasizing the urgent need for robust security measures. Recent cyber attacks on organizations like the International Trade Administration Commission and the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission highlight the pervasive nature of cyber threats in South Africa.
Advocate Pansy Tlakula, chairperson of the Information Regulator, warns of escalating data breaches, with the regulator receiving over 150 breach notifications monthly. These incidents underscore the critical importance of strengthening cyber defenses and implementing proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information across public and private sectors in South Africa.
