Cyber Attack on Sri Lanka's Finance Ministry: $2.5 Million Misappropriated!

In a shocking incident, Sri Lanka's Finance Ministry has confirmed a cyber breach that resulted in the theft of $2.5 million. The hackers gained unauthorized access to the External Resources Department's computer system, diverting funds meant for foreign debt repayment. The opposition has raised concerns, prompting calls for an investigation into the matter. As the government prepares an official response, the implications for public finances are significant. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 23, 2026, 11:51 IST

Cyber Hackers Breach Finance Ministry's System

Colombo: The Finance Ministry of Sri Lanka has reported a significant breach in its External Resources Department's computer system, where cybercriminals accessed the system without authorization and executed a theft involving foreign currency.

On Wednesday, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development confirmed that it has filed complaints with law enforcement and other pertinent authorities regarding this incident.

According to the ministry's statement, "Cyber hackers have gained unauthorized access to the computer system of an External Resources Department within the institution."

This announcement followed claims from the opposition that $2.5 million of treasury funds had been diverted to an account not designated for the repayment of foreign debt owed to an Australian creditor.

A coalition of opposition lawyers addressed the speaker of parliament, noting that Sri Lanka was scheduled to pay $22.9 million to a creditor in September 2025.

The $2.5 million, which was a partial payment of that total, was reportedly transferred between December 2025 and January 31, 2026, but it has now come to light that this payment ended up in a hacker's account instead of the intended creditor's account, as stated by the lawyers.

They urged the speaker to launch an investigation, emphasizing that public finances fall under the purview of parliament.

This matter was also discussed during the proceedings of the parliament's Committee on Public Accounts (COPA).

In response, government spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayathissa indicated that an official statement would be forthcoming.