ODPP IT Breach: Unauthorised App Discovered, Staff Terminated

An alleged breach in the information technology (IT) system of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has triggered serious concerns over the protection of sensitive prosecution case files.

It has also raised alarm bells about cybersecurity oversight in one of Fiji's most critical legal institutions.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Nancy Tikoisuva, confirmed that the alleged breach involved the discovery of an "unauthorised application" embedded within the ODPP system.

While Ms Tikoisuva did not disclose details about the unauthorised application, the Fiji Sun understands it enabled remote access capabilities and had been detected in several ODPP branches on Viti Levu.

"We discovered an unauthorised application o n our system, which was immediately uninstalled," Ms Tikoisuva said.

"After thorough checks, it was confirmed that no harm was done to our systems, servers or data.

"We take such matters extremely seriously."

It is alleged the application was downloaded by an IT officer who was initially suspended before being permanently removed from the organisation.

"The staff responsible is no longer with the organisation, and we have taken appropriate internal actions in line with our policies," she said.

While internal investigations concluded that no data was compromised, the nature of the alleged breach-potentially exposing high-profile and confidential case information-raises serious concerns.

"Out of respect for any potential legal proceedings, we will not be making any further statements," Ms Tikoisuva said.

The ODPP has since initiated an overhaul of its digital security protocols, launching a comprehensive review of internal policies and protective measures.

"The integrity and security of our systems remain our highest priority, and we are currently reviewing our internal policies to ensure enhanced safety measures are in place going forward," Ms Tikoisuva added.

Although the immediate threat has been contained, the incident has placed a spotlight on digital vulnerabilities within key state institutions-particularly those entrusted with maintaining the integrity of Fiji's legal process.

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