Ex-communications minister targeted in WhatsApp hack

Former communications minister Nomvula Mokonyane’s WhatsApp was hacked. Here’s what we know about the breach

Former Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Nomvula Mokonyane has fallen victim to a WhatsApp hack.

Nomvula Mokonyane loses her WhatsApp to hackers

In a statement issued to her colleagues and comrades, the former minister warned that her communications had been compromised, advising them to disregard any messages or groups appearing to originate from her.

“We advise all comrades and colleagues to exercise caution and ignore any messages or groups that appear to be sent or created by her on WhatsApp or any social media platforms,” the statement read.

Mokonyane served as South Africa’s Minister of Communications in 2018 under President Cyril Ramaphosa.

During her tenure, she spearheaded the nation’s digital infrastructure and policy.

Was this a national security breach?

While details surrounding the hacking remain unclear, the breach could have wider implications beyond personal inconvenience. 

As a former Cabinet member, Mokonyane is likely to have maintained contact with government officials, political leaders, and other individuals who handle sensitive information.

If hackers accessed her account, they might exploit her connections to impersonate her, spread false information, or extract confidential data.

Moreover, the breach may have exposed any ongoing or archived conversations involving strategic or political matters.

Even if Mokonyane is no longer in office, her communications could still contain information valuable to individuals or entities looking to disrupt political stability or gain leverage.

While no evidence has emerged to suggest the breach had immediate national security implications