Moroccan University Takes Action Against Cyberattack on Master’s Degree Platform

Abdelmalek Essaadi University, a prominent Moroccan institution of higher learning, has initiated a comprehensive investigation into a recent security breach of its master's degree nomination platform. The breach occurred on the evening of Monday, September 4, and the university is taking swift action to address this breach of its digital infrastructure, the Moroccan state media reported.

Rabat – Abdelmalek Essaadi University, a prominent Moroccan institution of higher learning, has initiated a comprehensive investigation into a recent security breach of its master’s degree nomination platform. The breach occurred on the evening of Monday, September 4, and the university is taking swift action to address this breach of its digital infrastructure, the Moroccan state media reported.

In a press release issued shortly after the incident came to light, Abdelmalek Essaadi University expressed its deep concern over the hacking of a platform that plays a pivotal role in facilitating the selection process for master’s degree candidates. The institution emphasized that this act constitutes a severe electronic crime under Moroccan law and will not be tolerated.

“Hacking a digital platform belonging to a public institution that provides public services to the citizens of the dear homeland is an electronic crime punishable by Moroccan law,” the Moroccan university said in a statement. It further stated that the university is fully committed to protecting the rights of both female and male students, as well as safeguarding its reputation from unjust damage.

In response to the breach, Abdelmalek Essaadi University has launched an extensive internal investigation aimed at identifying the individuals responsible for this unauthorized intrusion. University authorities view this incident as a direct threat to the significant efforts they have put into ensuring a smooth and secure enrollment process for the 2023-2024 academic year.

The institution is also taking immediate steps to enhance the security and confidentiality of the information contained within the compromised platform. Measures are being implemented to prevent any further unauthorized access, and the university has assured students that their data and personal information will be protected.

In a commitment to uphold the right to pre-registration for master’s degree competitions for all students, Abdelmalek Essaadi University has decided to extend the nomination period. Students now have until Sunday, September 10, 2023, to complete their nominations. This extension is intended to mitigate any disruption caused by the breach and ensure that all eligible candidates have an equal opportunity to apply.