EMM’s online billing is safe

The EMM’s spokesperson, Mr Samuel Modiba, said Ekurhuleni’s online billing system is secure for users.

“This follows concerns raised after a neighbouring municipality’s online billing system’s vulnerability was exposed. It allowed private municipality invoices to be viewed by anyone with an internet connection,” Mr Modiba said.

EMM’s chief information officer, Mr Kiruben Pillay, said the metro’s customer information on the Ekurhulni’s eSiyakhokha service is protected and is in line with ICT industry best practice.

“The integrity of our online billing system, eSiyakhokha, remains intact. Users must register on the site before they can access their information. After registration, they are issued with a user name and password to access their account information. You can only view your own statements on the site, no additional information is accessible,” he said.

He added that Ekurhuleni has taken extra precautionary measures to protect its consumers following the complaints by the CoJ’s customers.

“We have reviewed our eSiyakhokha services for any security flaws and have dealt with a potential flaw we detected. We have also reviewed the eValuation website and the pre-paid electricity systems managed by third parties, and can advise that there are adequate security controls in place, which prevent security breaches, such as others being able to view or edit another customer’s information,” he said.

Mr Sheldon Quarmby, the chief executive officer of Interfile, the company that manages the Ekurhuleni’s eSiyakhokha online billing site, said they have dealt with potential security vulnerability on the system.

“We acted on the vulnerability, however it is important for ratepayers to be aware that there was no security breach,” said Mr Quarmby.

Mr Modiba said customers who have queries must contact the eSiyakhokha call centre on 011 361-4201 between 08:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday, or send an email to emmsupport@interfile.co.za