Brazil’s emergency alert system investigated after ‘extreme’ fake alert sent

Based on information from The Register, Brazil's National Secretariat for Civil Protection and Defense (SEDEC) and the Federal Police (PF) are investigating a suspected hack of the country's emergency alert system. This follows an unauthorized "extreme" alert that was sent to devices nationwide.

The incident occurred early Saturday, June 20, when the Defesa Civil Nacional's dispatch platform was compromised. An alert containing the phrase "Alerta extremo - Defesa Civil:misantropi4," which translates to "Extreme alert - Civil Defense: misanthropy," was broadcast to an unknown number of devices across various regions, including São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Paraná, and the Federal District. Civil defense authorities confirmed the alerts were false and not issued by official channels.

The National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) stated there is no reason for public concern, emphasizing the system's overall capability to save lives during disasters. Officials believe the breach originated from an external source, not government staff. A new, more secure dispatch system is reportedly under development, and authorities are working to restore the compromised system after ensuring its security.

Source: The Register