Eskom announces stricter security measures following Online Vending System breach
Embattled power utility Eskom has announced new security and oversight measures for its prepaid electricity system
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Embattled power utility Eskom has announced new security and oversight measures for its prepaid electricity system, aimed at strengthening its Online Vending System and improving control across its operations.
The decision to implement the new measures comes after the release of a forensic report detailing a breach of the Online Vending System (OVS) in Eskom's full-year financial results for 2024, which were published in December 2024.
According to the state-owned power utility, the system was exploited to create and distribute fraudulent prepaid electricity tokens. This incident highlighted significant vulnerabilities in both the physical and cybersecurity aspects of the utility's prepaid electricity infrastructure.
In a statement issued to the media on Wednesday, Eskom said that it has undertaken a "comprehensive review and intervention strategy aimed at mitigating these vulnerabilities and restoring the integrity of the system."
“We uncovered weaknesses in physical and cybersecurity components on our OVS system,” Monde Bala, Eskom’s Group Executive for Distribution, said.
“Earlier this year, Eskom successfully strengthened the protection of its current systems against potential threats. All system enhancements are managed through a robust Change Management process that spans all divisions, ensuring consistent oversight and control.
Bala also stressed that the new measures are part of the utility’s broader effort to safeguard operations and improve system integrity.
"These measures are part of Eskom’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding operations and addressing identified vulnerabilities,” said Eskom’s Chief Technology and Information Officer, Len De Villiers.
Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, acknowledged the challenges facing the Online Vending System (OVS) and emphasised the utility’s determined response.
“We are fully aware of the challenges that have emerged within the OVS environment and we have taken clear steps to address them. Our focus is on restoring trust, strengthening our systems, and ensuring that our customers can rely on a secure and efficient service. This is not just a technical fix, it is part of a broader commitment to transparency, operational excellence and accountability,” s Marokane said.
Eskom added that it will continue to investigate and strengthen its systems and governance.
"Eskom continues to investigate and strengthen its systems and governance, it calls on stakeholders and its customers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to prepaid electricity tokens".
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business