By Staff Reporter
HARARE — Government is investigating a recent wave of WhatsApp account takeovers targeting businesses and individuals, with possible links to mobile messaging systems and Meta’s advertising services under scrutiny.
Information and Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services minister Tatenda Mavetera said the government was working with the affected mobile network operator and other stakeholders to establish how the breaches occurred and whether financial information or advertising payment accounts had been compromised.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police Cyber Crime Division has also been drawn into the investigation, which could expose weaknesses in the systems used to deliver verification messages and secure business accounts.
Investigators are examining the possible involvement of short message service (SMS) aggregators, companies that route messages between telecommunications networks and their intended recipients.
However, no responsibility has been established, and the inquiry remains ongoing.
“The scale of the reported attack is unprecedented and requires a coordinated response to protect our citizens and business,” Mavetera said in remarks broadcast on national television.
Compromised accounts could be exploited to impersonate business owners, defraud customers or gain access to linked advertising and payment services, raising concerns over the security of digital communications.
Mavetera said authorities were also looking into possible breaches involving Meta’s advertising services and associated payment arrangements, although the extent of any financial losses or exposure of payment information has not been established.
“This remains a line of inquiry and evidence must establish responsibility,” she said.
Mavetera urged businesses to check linked devices, account access, advertising campaigns and payment records for suspicious activity, while warning users against disclosing passwords, PINs or verification codes.
Anyone who suspects an account has been hijacked should use official recovery procedures, alert their mobile network operator and report suspected criminal activity to the police.
Customers who identify unauthorised financial transactions should also contact their banks immediately.
The affected mobile network operator has reportedly begun putting in place a round-the-clock assistance mechanism for customers, with a comprehensive statement expected as engagement with Meta continues.
Growing concern over digital security comes as businesses increasingly rely on online platforms to communicate with customers and conduct transactions.
Authorities have yet to establish the number of affected accounts, how hackers gained access or the extent of any financial losses.
Government has pledged to release verified information as investigations progress.
