Mogadishu, Somalia | November 16, 2025:
A significant cybersecurity breach in Somalia’s national e-visa system has compromised the personal data of tens of thousands of applicants, including a large number of US citizens, according to an urgent advisory issued by the US Embassy.
Officials revealed that hackers infiltrated the digital visa-processing platform, gaining access to sensitive information such as passport details, date of birth, travel history, and contact data. The breach has raised serious concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the Horn of Africa, a region already grappling with security and governance challenges.
The US Embassy urged all affected applicants to monitor their financial accounts, change passwords, and remain alert for identity-theft risks. Cybersecurity experts warn the incident may be part of a broader pattern of attacks seeking to exploit emerging digital systems in developing nations.
Somalia’s Ministry of Interior has launched an investigation, while international partners are expected to assist in securing the compromised infrastructure.
