Zimbabwe Government Launches Cyber Investigation After WhatsApp Business Accounts Compromised
Zimbabwe’s government has launched a multi-agency cyber investigation following reports of WhatsApp Business account compromises. Authorities are investigating how criminals gained access to the accounts and whether businesses’ financial information or linked payment arrangements were exposed.
The investigation involves the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Cyber Crime Division, an affected mobile network operator and Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company. The government has not yet confirmed the cause of the reported incidents.
WhatsApp Business Account Crisis Prompts Government Investigation
Information and Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the reported incidents required a coordinated response to protect businesses and the public.
“The scale of the reported attacks is unprecedented and requires a coordinated response to protect our citizens and businesses,” Mavetera said.
Investigators are examining possible weaknesses in SMS verification systems, mobile network services and the platforms involved. They are also assessing whether accounts connected to Meta advertising services and payment arrangements were used to access financial information or facilitate unauthorised transactions.
However, Mavetera stressed that investigators had not established responsibility.
“This remains a line of inquiry, and evidence must establish responsibility,” she said.
The government has not confirmed that a mobile network or Meta system was breached. Investigators must establish how the accounts were accessed and whether the reported cases share a common cause.
What Zimbabweans Should Do To Protect Their WhatsApp Accounts
POTRAZ is engaging Meta on account protection and recovery, while the ministry is coordinating with the affected mobile network operator. The operator is expected to provide a comprehensive statement on its findings and response measures.
Mavetera urged businesses and individuals to check linked devices, advertising activity and payment transactions. Users were also warned against sharing passwords, PINs or verification codes.
Anyone who notices suspicious activity should contact their bank, report the incident to the police and mobile network operator, and follow official account recovery procedures.
The investigation remains ongoing. Its findings will determine how the compromises occurred, whether service providers were at fault and what measures may be needed to prevent further incidents.
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