Protect Your Business from Data Breaches: Lessons from the MTN Cybersecurity Incident
On 25 April 2025, South African telecoms giant MTN Group confirmed a cybersecurity breach that resulted in unauthorised access to customer data across several of its operating markets. While no financial platforms or core systems were compromised, the incident highlights the growing cybersecurity risks businesses face in an increasingly digital economy.
MTN’s swift response involving law enforcement, regulatory authorities, and public communication offers important lessons for all organisations on the importance of proactive cybersecurity management.
What Can Your Business Learn from This?
At SEESA, we believe in turning high-profile incidents like this into opportunities for reflection and resilience-building. A breach like MTN’s reminds all businesses that no organisation is immune and being prepared can make all the difference.
Things You Can Do to Protect Your Business from Data Breaches:
- Regularly Review and Update Cybersecurity Protocols
- Ensure firewalls, anti-virus software, and security systems are up to date.
- Review access controls and ensure only authorised personnel can access sensitive data.
- Educate Your Employees
- Most data breaches happen due to human error.
- Run regular cybersecurity awareness workshops and phishing simulations to build a security-first culture.
- Conduct Regular Risk Assessments
- Identify potential vulnerabilities in your systems before cybercriminals do.
- Use external audits or cybersecurity consultants to get an objective risk overview.
- Implement a Clear Incident Response Plan
- In the event of a breach, you need to act fast.
- Have a detailed, documented response plan that outlines who does what, when, and how.
- Ensure POPIA Compliance
- Stay compliant with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
- Regularly review your data protection policies and privacy statements to avoid regulatory penalties.
Need Assistance?
If you’re unsure whether your business is adequately protected, or if your policies are POPIA-compliant, contact your SEESA legal advisor today. We can assist with risk assessments, policy reviews, and staff training to help safeguard your organisation.