A cyber-security breach in Somalia’s electronic visa (e-visa) system has put the personal information of more than 35 000 travellers at risk, with Kenyans most affected, accounting for over 13 000 compromised records.
According to reports, the breach exposed sensitive details including passport numbers, photographs, dates of birth, and banking information used to pay for visas. Investigators say the flaw arose from an unsecured verification portal that allowed unrestricted access to the data.
Dennis Beru, journalist and team leader at Grassroot Journalism Kenya, described the incident as deeply concerning.
“This is one of the most serious digital security incidents affecting international travellers in the region,” Beru said. “Data including passport numbers, photos, dates of birth and even banking information is now circulating in criminal networks.”
Cyber-security experts warn that the leaked information could be exploited for identity theft, fraud, or even by extremist groups such as al-Shabaab. The breach comes shortly after the Somali government introduced the e-visa system to simplify travel, highlighting the need for stronger safeguards.
–ChannelAfrica–
