Digital Dogfights: DDoS Attacks Expose ISP Rivalries in Bangladesh

Some internet service providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh have been attempting to cripple rival networks and businesses through foreign-orchestrated Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, according to credible evidence received by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser of the interim government, confirmed the matter, saying that regulatory authorities already possess data related to these attacks and that action against the offending companies is underway.

Issuing a stern warning, Taiyeb stated that licenses of the guilty ISPs could be revoked if found responsible for such cyber offenses. He urged all internet service providers in the country to “promptly install anti-DDoS setups and load balancers, invest adequately in network security, and stop any targeted unethical behavior aimed at restricting competition.”

The warning came in a Facebook post made by Taiyeb on Friday, October 31.

Taiyeb wrote, “Credible evidence has reached the government and the BTRC that some companies in Bangladesh’s Internet Service Providing (ISP) sector are attempting to destroy competitors’ networks and businesses through foreign-based DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks. We have the names of those responsible. Punitive measures are coming against the owners of the companies involved in such criminal activities. They will not be eligible in the new licensing process, and their existing licenses may be canceled. Under Bangladesh’s Cyber Security Act, unauthorized network access, hacking, or intentional service disruption is a serious crime.”

He further noted, “Some ISP companies have been held up in the license renewal or share transfer process due to substantial arrears. Those who purchase bandwidth from government or private companies but fail to pay, instead shifting tactically to another ITC or IIG provider, will not have their licenses renewed.”

Additionally, Taiyeb revealed that several companies with close ties to the previous government have engaged in fraudulent activities, such as issuing fake cheques worth millions of taka to state institutions under the guise of bill payments — as in the case of We Are Network. “Legal action and lawsuits are being prepared against these serious financial crimes,” he stated, adding that “no license renewal will be granted while dues remain unpaid.”

In his post, Taiyeb also called for collective accountability: “Do not conceal the names of DDoS attackers just because they are your acquaintances or relatives. Rather, victims should unite and file legal cases. If you do, the government will be able to provide institutional support for law enforcement. The BTRC will catch the illegal attackers, while you must also invest adequately to secure your own infrastructure. By working together, we can make Bangladesh’s internet service sector more disciplined and secure.”