INSA thwarts cyber-attacks targeting finance institutions, GERD

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2022 (FBC) – Director General of Information Network Security Agency (INSA), Shumete Gizaw (PhD), said that they have thwarted planned cyber-attacks targeting the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and major financial institutions in the country.

He said that an organization which is sponsored by countries that envy peace and development endeavors of Ethiopia has declared cyber-war against Ethiopia under the motto of “Black Pyramid War”.

The failed cyber-attacks include attempts to impeded the works of the GERD by targeting 37,000 interlinked computers used by financial institutions, according to him.

Such a campaign was attempted to sabotage the successful construction of the GERD, Shumet said.

He warned that cyber-attacks against the GERD might increase in the future, and that concerted cyber security was being implemented to protect both the construction and administration of works of the mega dam.

The cyber-attacks targeting financial institutions would have caused devastating results if they succeeded, he said and advised financial institutions to put in place all necessary defensive measures against such attacks

The Director General recalled that INSA has thwarted more than 3,400 attempted cyber-attacks during the first half of current Ethiopian budget year, calling institutions to strengthen their protection systems in advance.