Johannesburg – The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University) has confirmed a serious cyberattack affecting its IT systems. The incident, classified as a “zero-day” event, has raised concerns about data security and the vulnerability of South African institutions to cybercrime.
A 'zero-day' attack exploits a software vulnerability unknown to the vendor, meaning there's no immediate patch available. This gives hackers a significant advantage.
According to Wits University, the attack targeted its Oracle E-Business system and has potentially compromised data across multiple countries. Dr Stanley Mpofu, CIO of Wits University, is working closely with ICT, Oracle, and cybersecurity specialists to assess the extent of the damage and identify any compromised data.
"This is a serious situation, and we are taking all necessary steps to contain the breach and protect our community," stated a university spokesperson. "We have already implemented the latest critical patch updates released by Oracle."
Despite the cyberattack, Wits University maintains that its operations are continuing as normal. The university has also notified the Information Regulator of the incident, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and compliance with data protection regulations.
This incident highlights the increasing threat of cybercrime in South Africa. Recent attacks on Netstar, Cell C, MTN, and SAA underscore the vulnerability of South African organisations. ESET's bi-annual Threat Report identifies South Africa as the most targeted country in Africa for infostealer and ransomware attacks.
The Wits University cyberattack serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the need for constant vigilance in the face of evolving cyber threats. Organisations must prioritize proactive security measures, including regular software updates, employee training, and incident response planning.
Key Takeaways:
- Wits University's IT systems compromised by a 'zero-day' cyberattack.
- Operations continue as normal, despite the breach.
- University working with Oracle and cybersecurity experts to assess the damage.
- The Information Regulator has been notified.
- This incident highlights the growing cyber threat in South Africa.
What's Next?
The investigation is ongoing, and Wits University is committed to providing updates as more information becomes available. The focus remains on securing systems and mitigating any potential risks to the university community.