In a significant incident, Tanzania has restricted access to the social media platform X after hackers targeted various official accounts belonging to government and private entities. On Tuesday, the Tanzanian police's official account was hacked, leading to the dissemination of explicit content and false claims regarding the president's death. Shortly afterward, the police distanced themselves from the misinformation and confirmed that an investigation is underway to identify the culprits.
Tanzania Limits Access to Social Media Platform X Following Cyberattack on Police Accounts
Tanzania Limits Access to Social Media Platform X Following Cyberattack on Police Accounts
Tanzanian police are investigating a cyberattack that compromised their social media, resulting in restricted access to X across the country.
Following the breach, internet monitoring organization Netblocks reported that X became "unreachable on major internet providers" throughout the nation. On Wednesday, users in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, found it challenging to access the site without utilizing virtual private networks (VPNs). While illegal to use without a permit, some users in other regions reported continued access. The Tanzanian authorities have refrained from clarifying whether they are actively blocking the platform.
In parliament, Information Minister Jerry Silaa acknowledged the hacking incident and reassured lawmakers that the compromised social media accounts had been secured. Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa also cautioned individuals responsible for the hack that swift action would follow.
These developments coincide with ongoing tensions over the deportation of prominent Kenyan figures, which hindered their attendance at a court case involving opposition leader Tundu Lissu facing treason charges. President Samia Suluhu Hassan warned Kenyan activists against meddling in Tanzanian affairs after the deportations occurred. Notable activist Boniface Mwangi, alongside Ugandan Agather Atuhaire, was arrested in Dar es Salaam by suspected military personnel, with their current status unknown. Mwangi's wife expressed her grave concern over his safety, stating that she had not heard from him since Monday.
As the situation unfolds, Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, confirmed they are monitoring the situation closely and will seek legal remedies to ensure a fair resolution.
For more updates on this evolving story, follow RTW News for real-time coverage and community engagement.
In parliament, Information Minister Jerry Silaa acknowledged the hacking incident and reassured lawmakers that the compromised social media accounts had been secured. Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa also cautioned individuals responsible for the hack that swift action would follow.
These developments coincide with ongoing tensions over the deportation of prominent Kenyan figures, which hindered their attendance at a court case involving opposition leader Tundu Lissu facing treason charges. President Samia Suluhu Hassan warned Kenyan activists against meddling in Tanzanian affairs after the deportations occurred. Notable activist Boniface Mwangi, alongside Ugandan Agather Atuhaire, was arrested in Dar es Salaam by suspected military personnel, with their current status unknown. Mwangi's wife expressed her grave concern over his safety, stating that she had not heard from him since Monday.
As the situation unfolds, Mwabukusi, president of the Tanganyika Law Society, confirmed they are monitoring the situation closely and will seek legal remedies to ensure a fair resolution.
For more updates on this evolving story, follow RTW News for real-time coverage and community engagement.
