Hackers leak Telecom Namibia data following ransom refusal

Namibia’s state-owned telecom provider, Telecom Namibia, confirmed Monday that customer data was leaked on the dark web after the company refused to negotiate with hackers responsible for a ransomware attack. The breach, attributed to the cybercrime group Hunters International, exposed sensitive information in retaliation for the company’s steadfast refusal to pay a ransom.

In an interview with local media, Telecom Namibia CEO Stanley Shanapinda reaffirmed the company’s firm stance against engaging with cyber criminals. “We don’t negotiate with cyber terrorists,” Shanapinda declared. “The sums they demand are exorbitant and unaffordable. Moreover, ransom does not guarantee that the stolen data will remain private.”

Although Telecom Namibia has not disclosed specific details about the compromised data, local reports suggest the breach includes over 400,000 files containing personal and financial information, including data belonging to high-ranking government officials and telecom provider clients.

The company is collaborating with local law enforcement agencies to analyze the leaked data and mitigate risks to its customers. It also warned that sharing or misusing leaked data is a criminal offense under Namibian law. Some compromised information has surfaced on social media platforms, raising concerns over potential misuse.

Hunters International, the cybercrime group behind the attack, emerged in October 2023 and operates as a ransomware-as-a-service provider. While initially suspected to be a successor to the notorious Hive ransomware group—dismantled by the FBI earlier this year—the gang has denied any direct connection, stating that it purchased encryption software from Hive developers. Known for targeting industries such as health, automotive, manufacturing, and financial services, the group has drawn international attention for its audacious methods.