Unauthorised Access Confirmed

An Garda Síochána confirmed that two of its official accounts on the X platform, @GardaInfo and @GardaTraffic, were subject to third-party unauthorised access. The breach involved the accounts being used to promote a cryptocurrency platform. The accounts, which together have more than 900,000 followers, saw branding elements removed and their listed location changed to Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

Posts about cryptocurrency appeared on both profiles beginning on Wednesday night. The @GardaTraffic account, followed by more than 600,000 people and used for traffic and road safety updates, retained some of its original description. The @GardaInfo account, with nearly 300,000 followers, was altered to resemble a support account for a cryptocurrency wallet, though earlier Garda posts and videos remained visible for a time.

Gardaí stated that the unauthorised access was limited to the X platform. Officials confirmed there was no unauthorised access to any Garda systems and no loss or impact on any Garda data.

Public Warning Issued

In response, An Garda Síochána issued a clear warning to the public. Members of the public were advised not to interact with any content posted on the @GardaTraffic or @GardaInfo accounts, or with any accounts claiming to be those profiles. Some posts carried platform warnings linked to associations with suspended accounts, consistent with rules addressing spam, malicious behaviour and security risks.

The accounts had previously carried notices that they should not be used for reporting crimes. Gardaí indicated they were conducting internal enquiries and working with the X platform to determine how the access occurred.

Control Restored and Investigation Underway

By Thursday evening, An Garda Síochána confirmed it had regained control of both accounts. The profiles will remain inactive for the coming days to allow the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau to conduct its investigations. All unauthorised posts were removed by the platform after being viewed by thousands of users while active.

As the matter is now the subject of a criminal investigation, Gardaí stated they would make no further comment at this time.

Expert Reactions

Cybersecurity specialist Brian Honan described the incident as embarrassing for the organisation responsible for tackling crime, noting that the hijacking of high-profile accounts with large followings is not unusual. Attackers frequently target trusted names to reach wide audiences.

Cronin added that secure handling of data, whether gathered through social media or other means, remains essential to Garda operations and public safety. She called for An Garda Síochána and the X platform to explain the events to the public as soon as practicable to address concerns.