Hargeisa (Hornpost) The United States says Somalia’s E-visa system has been hacked, compromising personal data belonging to thousands of applicants, including American citizens.
The United States Embassy in Mogadishu has announced that the Somali government’s E-visa platform was hacked, exposing personal data belonging to thousands of applicants.
In its statement, the Embassy said cybercriminals gained unauthorized access to the system and stole photographs, personal information, and other sensitive data submitted by users during the registration process. Among those affected, the Embassy noted, are U.S. citizens whose information has now been compromised.
The U.S. has issued an advisory to its nationals, alerting them to the breach and urging caution.
Somaliland Official (hypothetical): “IATA’s confirmation of Visa on Arrival strengthens Somaliland’s global engagement and eases travel for international visitors.”
Meanwhile, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global body representing over 350 airlines accounting for 80% of worldwide air traffic — has updated its IATA Travel Centre with new guidance concerning travel to Somaliland.
According to IATA’s official database, passengers traveling to Somaliland are eligible for a Visa on Arrival upon entry at Egal International Airport in Hargeisa.
The update marks a significant step forward for Somaliland’s connectivity and global visibility and is seen as a notable improvement in facilitating international travel to the region.
BACKGROUND / CONTEXT:
Somalia’s E-Visa program, introduced to streamline travel processing, has faced criticism over technical vulnerabilities and inconsistent implementation.
Cyberattacks on government digital platforms have increased in the region, often targeting poorly protected databases.
IATA Travel Centre is considered the most authoritative global source for visas and travel regulations used by airlines worldwide.
The new IATA update confirming Visa on Arrival for Somaliland is viewed as a diplomatic and logistical win for Hargeisa, improving accessibility for travelers and adding weight to Somaliland’s separate administrative systems, especially amid ongoing disputes over airspace management and travel regulation between Hargeisa and Mogadishu.
Prepared:
Hornpost staff Reporter
Hargeisa, Somaliland
