Channel 13 reports server hack, describes incident as attack on media
Channel 13 is known for its coverage of opposition political activities, including those of the People's National Front led by former President Yameen.
Media Ring Pvt Ltd, the parent company of Channel 13, has reported that the broadcaster’s servers were hacked, describing the incident as an attempt to silence the media.
In a statement issued on Thursday night, the company said the servers of Channel 13 were breached by unknown individuals at 11:53 PM on Wednesday.
Channel 13 is known for its coverage of opposition political activities, including those of the People's National Front led by former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.
According to the company, the breach was a targeted attack against media organisations.
“This company views this as a targeted attack by certain entities against media outlets in the Maldives,” the statement said.
Media Ring noted that unauthorised access to computer systems constitutes an offence under Maldivian law and condemned the incident.
The company further alleged that the attack was intended to obstruct journalism and restrict the flow of information.
The statement also highlighted that the server breach occurred shortly after Channel 13 broadcast reports concerning the shutdown of a website and the hacking of social media accounts associated with the “Cockroach Janta Party”.
Media Ring did not provide further details regarding the extent of the breach or any impact on Channel 13’s operations.
The company stated that it would continue its work despite the incident.
“We give our full assurance that even in the face of intimidation, censorship, imprisonment, or hacking, Channel 13 will not hesitate to deliver information to the public,” the statement said.
The “Cockroach Janta Party” referenced in the statement is a youth-driven movement in India.
No information has yet been released regarding the identity of those responsible for the alleged cyberattack.
