Employees of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) in the Maldives were allegedly subjected to surveillance through computer software installed on their devices, according to sources familiar with the matter. The software, reportedly in use for two years, tracked employee activities and captured sensitive information, including passwords.
This shocking revelation has led to allegations of misconduct against CSC Chairman Mohamed Nasih, sparking public concerns about privacy and transparency within government institutions.
Allegations of Spying: What Happened?
The controversy erupted after a parliamentary complaint accused CSC Chairman Mohamed Nasih of overseeing the use of the surveillance software. According to reports, the software was installed under the guise of enhancing cybersecurity. However, sources claim it was misused to monitor employees’ activities, potentially compromising sensitive information such as banking credentials and social media passwords.
Nasih has denied any prior knowledge of the software's misuse, stating he became aware of the situation only after it was raised in parliament.
“I had no knowledge of the software being used for surveillance purposes,” Nasih said.
Internal Investigation Uncovers Suspects
An internal investigation by the CSC identified two suspects allegedly involved in the misuse of the software. Among them were the head of the CSC’s IT department and a consultant. Both individuals were suspended for one month as a preliminary disciplinary measure.
The case has since been handed over to the police for further investigation.
“The identified individuals have been suspended, and the matter is now with the police,” Nasih confirmed.
The Software’s Alleged Misuse
The software in question was reportedly procured in April 2022 under the pretense of bolstering cybersecurity. It was intended to protect CSC systems from malware and cyber threats. However, insiders claim it was covertly deployed to track employee activities and collect sensitive personal information.
A source close to the matter revealed:
“The software was supposed to secure CSC systems, but it was used to monitor employees and extract private data without their knowledge.”
Police and Parliamentary Investigations
The Maldives Police Service has confirmed receiving a case involving the development of software allegedly used to spy on CSC employees. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the full scope of the issue.
In addition, a parliamentary complaint accused Nasih of misconduct, alleging that he acted against his responsibilities as CSC Chairman. The Parliament’s Committee on Independent Institutions reviewed the allegations but concluded that there was insufficient evidence to recommend Nasih’s dismissal.
Public Outcry and Calls for Transparency
The revelations have sparked widespread public concern over employee privacy and the potential abuse of surveillance technologies within state institutions. Advocacy groups are urging the government to establish stricter oversight of monitoring tools used by public agencies.
“This case highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in the use of surveillance technologies,” said a spokesperson for a local transparency organization.
