Hackers Hijack FIFA Twitter Accounts

• Reuters, Tuesday, April 23, 2013 1:31 PM

Hackers took over the Twitter accounts of Sepp Blatter (@SeppBlatter) and the FIFA World Cup (@fifaworldcup) on Monday, telling the world that the FIFA President was stepping down from his post due to corruption charges. Among the bogus messages broadcast through those accounts:

“It was decided that the president Sepp Blatter is to step down due to corruption charges.” (@fifaworldcup)

“Sepp Blatter has been investigated for multiple charges of bribery.” (@fifaworldcup)

“So what if I took money from a Qatari prince? I am the family’s bread earner.” (@SeppBlatter)

“His excellency the Emir of Qatar has been the most generous figure I have ever met.” (@SeppBlatter)

“I do not apologize for my decision. I have done the best for Fifa. For almost 15 years I have toiled for this organization.” (@SeppBlatter)

A group calling itself the “Syrian Electronic Army” claimed responsibility for hijacking the accounts. A statement from FIFA on Monday read: "Some FIFA accounts, incl. @SeppBlatter and @fifaworldcup, have been hacked. If in doubt, please verify any info with FIFA office."

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