Flamengo, a prominent Brazilian football club, reported on Thursday, February 19, that it is experiencing a hacker attack affecting its social media platforms. The club issued a warning to its followers, advising them not to engage with any recent posts or links until the situation is resolved. This incident has raised concerns among fans given the large following of over 10 million users on X, where such breaches could disseminate misinformation quickly.

The timing of the attack is particularly critical, occurring during the first leg of the Recopa Sul-Americana final against Argentine club Lanús. The game's coverage on social media was halted due to the hacking incident, and while posts made by the hackers were removed, screenshots of the malicious activity continue to circulate among users. This disruption during a high-stakes match could undermine the club's reputation and operational integrity during what should be a celebratory and engaging time for fans and the community.

The implications of this cyber attack extend beyond the immediate disruption. It raises awareness about cybersecurity vulnerabilities faced by large organizations, especially those with substantial fan engagement. Flamengo's proactive approach in alerting their followers exhibits responsible management of their digital platforms, aiming to mitigate potential fallout while emphasizing the importance of safe online practices, particularly in significant moments such as international football competitions.