Albania probes coordinated online attacks on businesses amid Kanye West concert protests

Albanian police have launched an investigation into a wave of coordinated negative online reviews targeting businesses, especially in the tourism sector. Fifteen business owners filed complaints after their establishments received thousands of hostile comments on social media. Intelligence gathered from Telegram channels revealed callers urging the sabotage of Kanye West's concert, including threats to block the artist’s route and prevent Albanians and foreigners from attending.

Initially, investigators suspected Iranian involvement because of previous cyber‑attacks on the country. Subsequent analysis showed the attacks were carried out by domestic actors using unverified or robotic accounts. Over 200 individuals have been identified and are under investigation. Analyst Skënder Minxhozi warned that “digital attacks damage the country's image,” while journalist Eni Ferati noted “there were calls on Telegram to block the road of the singer.” The incidents have unfolded amid a prolonged protest movement that has eclipsed traditional political opposition in Albania.