Senegal Treasury cyberattack disrupts payroll and fuels calls for security reforms

A cyberattack on Senegal's Treasury computer system on May 10 has crippled the processing of salaries, bonuses and public procurement, leaving thousands of civil servants, contract workers and suppliers unpaid as the country approaches the Tabaski holiday. Workers' unions warn of social unrest, citing unpaid incentives for fishermen, delayed payments for training beneficiaries and the inability of ministries to issue purchase orders. The Inter‑ministerial Collective of Senegalese Administration agents (CIAAS) has demanded emergency manual cash payments and threatens peaceful protests if the system is not restored.

In response, cybersecurity expert Malick Fall outlined a three‑stage strategy to protect public services, emphasizing improved detection, stronger infrastructure and enhanced staff training to prevent future attacks.