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A cyber attack has compromised Sri Lanka’s finance ministry computer network, resulting in the theft of $2.5 million. The government announced this on Thursday, marking the largest amount ever stolen from a government agency in the country, which is heavily burdened by debt.
This breach is a severe setback for Sri Lanka, which has been struggling to recover from a severe economic crisis in 2022 after defaulting on $46 billion in external debt.
The funds taken were meant for debt repayment to Australia, according to Harshana Suriyapperuma, the secretary of the finance ministry, who spoke to reporters in the capital.
Following the breach, four senior officials at the Public Debt Management Office (PDMO) were suspended.
Authorities detected an unauthorized attempt to access the ministry’s email server, and subsequent investigation revealed that a payment of $2.5 million owed to Australia had gone missing.
“Investigators are examining the situation, and we can’t share further details at this moment,” Suriyapperuma stated. He also mentioned that Sri Lankan officials are seeking assistance from international law enforcement agencies.
The PDMO was established earlier this year as part of Sri Lanka’s response to its economic turmoil, aided by an IMF-approved bailout package totaling $2.9 billion issued in early 2023.
Matthew Duckworth, Australia’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, confirmed that Canberra was aware of “irregularities” concerning payments it was owed.
“Authorities in Sri Lanka are investigating and coordinating with Australian officials, who are assisting with the inquiry,” Duckworth added on social media platform X.
He reaffirmed Australia’s commitment, emphasizing ongoing support for Sri Lanka’s efforts to restore debt sustainability.
Earlier this year, Sri Lanka’s central bank and finance ministry launched a campaign in local newspapers warning residents about cyber scams, likely in response to the increasing digital threats facing the country.
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