Senegalese government websites were targeted in a cyber attack by a group of hackers called Mysterious Team. The group conducted denial-of-service attacks, causing the websites to go offline. The attacks were claimed by the group through Twitter posts using the hashtag #FreeSenegal, which is associated with political repression allegations in Senegal. These cyber attacks occurred during a time of heightened political tensions in the country, with violent clashes between state security forces and opposition supporters resulting in casualties. Efforts are being made to restore the affected websites, while the Mysterious Team claims to be “cyber warriors from Bangladesh” and has previously targeted other organizations.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senegalese government websites hit with cyber attack | Cyber attacks on government websites | Improved cybersecurity measures implemented | Political tensions and desire for justice |
| Mysterious Team claims responsibility for cyber attacks | Little-known hacking group targets government websites | Increased cybersecurity measures in response to cyber threats | Desire for justice and political repression allegations |
| Political tensions in Senegal escalate with violent standoff | Heightened political tensions and violence | Increased political stability and resolution of conflicts | Power struggles and desire for change |
| Efforts made to bring government websites back online | Restoration of government websites after cyber attacks | Improved response and recovery capabilities | Government accountability and service provision |
| DDoS attacks directed at targeted servers | Use of DDoS attacks to disrupt online services | Strengthened cybersecurity measures to mitigate DDoS attacks | Cyber warfare tactics and desire for disruption |
| Mysterious Team claims to be cyber warriors from Bangladesh | Cyber attackers originating from Bangladesh target Senegal | Enhanced international cooperation in combating cyber threats | Desire for justice and political activism |
| Senegal experiences protests and fears of third-term presidency | Protests and concerns over potential third-term presidency | Political reforms and increased democratic processes | Power struggles and desire for change |
| Violent clashes between security forces and opposition supporters | Violence and clashes between security forces and opposition | Strengthened security forces and improved conflict resolution | Political tensions and power struggles |
| Opposition accuses government of targeting potential challengers | Allegations of government using judicial machinery against challengers | Increased transparency and accountability in the judicial system | Desire for justice and political power |
| Death during clashes between security forces and supporters | Fatal encounter during clashes between opposing groups | Improved security measures and conflict resolution strategies | Political tensions and desire for change |