A coordinated attack on fiber optic cables disrupted multiple telecommunication services in France overnight. Major providers, including SFR, Free, and Alphalink, reported network outages and degraded performance, impacting both fixed-line and mobile users.
The fiber optic cable sabotage incident, described as “vandalism” by authorities, occurred in several regions across the country. While the capital, Paris, was spared, the timing of the attack during the Olympic Games has raised concerns about potential security threats.
Fiber Optic Cable Sabotage Causes ‘Extensive Damage’
SFR, France’s second-largest telecom operator, confirmed extensive damage to its long-distance cables. “Our long-distance fiber optic network was the victim of acts of vandalism last night in several departments. Disruptions may remain in the most impacted areas. All our teams are mobilized to allow you to connect again with those and what are essential to you,” the telecom operator said.
Data from NetBlocks, an internet traffic monitoring service, showed disruptions to multiple internet providers in France, including Adista, Alphalink and Free.
Local media reported similar attacks on Bouygues Telecom infrastructure. The perpetrators, believed to be highly organized, targeted remote locations with precision. “This is an unprecedented attack on our digital backbone,” declared a spokesperson for the French Ministry of the Interior. “The scale and precision of the operation indicate a high level of sophistication.”
French National Security Concerns Grow
While the motive behind the sabotage remains shrouded in mystery, the attack has raised concerns about national security. “Disrupting communications can have a cascading effect on other critical systems,” said a spokesperson for the French intelligence agency. “We are working closely with our partners to investigate this matter.”
French police told AFP news agency that the incident occurred in six areas of France. Paris, the current host of the Olympic Games, wasn’t affected.
“The cables were located in places that are little known to the general public and that required precise information. They were likely damaged by highly equipped and organized individuals,” the reports said.
France’s Minister of State for Digital Transition, Marina Ferrari, strongly condemned the act, emphasizing that telecom operators were working diligently to restore services. “I condemn in the strongest terms these cowardly and irresponsible acts,” Ferrari said.
The sabotage incident comes on the heels of coordinated attacks on France’s high-speed railway, SNCF, last week. Authorities suspect far-left extremist groups may be responsible for both incidents, given their deliberate and targeted nature.
France on High Alert
France has been on high alert due to the Olympic Games, with increased security measures in place. The sabotage of critical infrastructure highlights the vulnerability of essential services to physical attacks.
Meanwhile, a similar incident occurred in Finland, where a cell phone tower was toppled, disrupting mobile services for Elisa customers. While authorities investigate the cause, vandalism is a suspected motive.
The interconnectedness of these attacks raises questions about potential links between the incidents. As investigations unfold, the world watches closely for updates on this developing situation.