News
World Council of Churches (WCC) communication director Marianne Ejdersten is being threatened by a group identifying itself as “The Chinese Expert Group.”
In an initial contact on 17 April, the group hacked Ejdersten’s private email account, taking a collection of private family photos, and asked for payment of $159,000 within 72 hours. The group also threatened to share the photos worldwide, then hack the WCC website and social media accounts.
WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit condemned the criminal attack. “It is terrible to experience such things as this, but public roles can lead to attacks like these,” he said. “The WCC will never give in to such threats.”
Ejdersten and the WCC continue to take the necessary steps to protect their security, and have already informed the police. “We will continue our work,” said Tveit.
The threats, received over email and via cell phone, set a deadline for receipt of money. “We won't entertain any delay in the transfer of the required amount today,” reads the threat, in part. “If you engage in any illicit delay, we are going to do the most heavy thing to see that your image is brought down to nothing and if you act improper against this instruction given out to you, you will see our supremacy.”
Ejdersten said she is shocked but not scared. “This is an attack on me, my family, the World Council of Churches, and on freedom of expression,” she said. “It is unacceptable to use private material for blackmailing me. I will never, ever pay for my right to have private communication with my own family members and friends.”
Ejdersten believes the threat might be an attempt to silence or diminish communication of the WCC’s public and prophetic voice that help bring to light stories from the most vulnerable in the world.
“After this, I’m more than ever convinced that a strong voice for justice and peace is needed,” said Ejdersten.