An investigation is underway to determine the source of a security breach of Parliament’s social media accounts on Saturday.
Parliament confirmed that a security breach on one of its YouTube streaming services, which is linked to its official social media accounts, led to the unauthorised uploading of content on its platforms.
Numerous posts advertising a cryptocurrency token, named after President Cyril Ramaphosa, were uploaded on these platforms.
In response, digital team swiftly intervened, shutting down the compromised posts.
“While a full investigation is underway to determine the source of the breach, additional safeguards are being put in place to strengthen the integrity of our digital infrastructure,” said Moloto Mothapo, Parliamentary spokesperson.
Parliament uses multiple YouTube streaming services to provide real-time, unfiltered access to committee meetings and House sittings, ensuring the public can engage directly with its proceedings. These services are integrated with social media platforms to broaden public involvement and enhance transparency, as stipulated by the Constitution.
However, this increased digital reach also presents growing cybersecurity risks that require constant vigilance.
“This expanded digital reach enhances public involvement and openness, as mandated by the Constitution, but also increases cybersecurity risks, which require continuous monitoring and reinforced security measures,” Mothapo said.
Mothapo said Parliament remains dedicated to ensuring the reliable and secure use of its platforms for the benefit of the public.
UNAUTHORISED CONTENT ON PARLIAMENT SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
Parliament has identified a security breach affecting one of its 25 YouTube streaming services, which is integrated with its official social media accounts. This breach resulted in the unauthorised upload of content not…
— Parliament of RSA (@ParliamentofRSA) March 15, 2025
ALSO READ: WATCH: Two Stellenbosch students before Parliament after exposing SRD Grant “fraud”