Ethical hacker targets Malta Gaming Authority
A German “ethical hacker” has claimed responsibility for a data breach at the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), alleging the regulator played a role in enabling organised crime within the iGaming sector.
Lilith Wittmann made the claim in a now-deleted LinkedIn post on March 20, stating she had accessed MGA systems and shared the data with media outlets and authorities. In the post, Wittmann accused the regulator of facilitating “organised crime schemes” while presenting itself as a legitimate public body.
The MGA quickly hit back at the hacker via a press release, slamming the hack and denying any failings, but did not address the specific claims made by Wittmann.
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“The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) is aware of public statements made by an individual claiming responsibility for unauthorised access to one of the Authority’s systems and making a series of allegations and threats in that context,” they said.
“The MGA condemns any unauthorised access to its systems and any extraction, handling or dissemination of data obtained through such activity.
“Such conduct is unacceptable and incompatible with lawful engagement with public institutions and established governance frameworks.
“The Authority operates within a robust legal and regulatory framework and carries out its statutory functions with integrity, independence and accountability.
“Allegations made in the context of unauthorised system access are unsubstantiated and do not undermine the MGA’s role as a regulator committed to transparency, due process and the rule of law.
“For more than two decades, the MGA has operated within established legal and governance frameworks, and will continue to do so. Ensuring that the Authority’s work, and the industry it regulates, operate with integrity and accountability is paramount.”
The incident marks the second time Wittmann has targeted the gambling industry, following a previous cyberattack on German gambling operator Merkur that led to several offshore sites shutting down.
Wittmann also warned that any attempt by Maltese authorities to extradite her could trigger the public release of additional data. She suggested the information obtained would be of significant public interest and could reshape scrutiny of regulatory oversight in the sector.
The MGA is one of the most influential gambling regulators in Europe, with their mix of business-friendly tax laws, and the respect they garner in the industry keys to their success.
