Hackers steal journalist’s personal data, demanding ransom, following social media spat over controversial story on President Lula

Location: Brazil, Brasilia
Date: October 4, 2023

Hackers break into Andreza Matais’ government portal account broken into and threaten to expose her fiscal data. The breach occurred shortly after Estadão published a controversial report on President Lula's involvement in a significant loan to Argentina. The Coalition For Women In Journalism calls for a prompt investigation into the hack to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

On October 4, 2023, hackers gained access to Andreza Matais' Gov.BR government portal account, changed passwords, and demanded a ransom in exchange for not disclosing her personal information. The Gov.BR portal allows citizens to access various services and personal data, including income tax declarations. While the motive behind the attack remains unclear, it is evident the hackers have malicious intentions.

Before the hack, Matais faced backlash on Twitter in response to her employee Vera Rosa’s column "Lula participated in an operation for the bank to lend US$1 billion to Argentina and stop Javier Milei from advancing." 

Information in the article was disputed by Planalto, the Brazilian presidential palace, leading to government supporters insulting the journalists on social media. George Marques, an advisor to the President, made inflammatory comments on Twitter, associating "sectors of the mainstream press" with the "extreme right" and the "cabinet of hate." In response, Matais exposed Marques' monthly remuneration and vowed to investigate and expose lies and fake news.

Matais’ outlet Estadão is known for its combative stance during the previous government, uncovering various scandals involving right-wing former President Bolsanaro.

Following the exchange on social media, Matais' Gov.BR account was hacked. Matais says she will take appropriate action. Authorities are currently investigating the incident and working towards restoring Matais' account and ensuring the compromised data is secured. 

While the Presidential advisor has the right to challenge reports and clarify points he deems pertinent, it is unacceptable to associate the press with the "extreme right" and the "hate office" to discredit their work. Directing harmful rhetoric at journalists who question authorities or investigate wrongdoing only deflects attention from misconduct. If the government truly wishes to promote a free press, it must refrain from making inflammatory accusations against journalists and media outlets. 

The Coalition For Women In Journalism commends the authorities for investigating the hacking of Andreza Matais' account and urges a swift conclusion to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

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