Big Questions Over R500 000 Probe Into Lotteries 'computer Breach'

Neo Solutions, headed by controversial businessman Vivien Natasen, was hired to investigate a suspected breach of a software system called BoardEffect, and to undertake a "cybersecurity assessment" of the NLC's computer systems.

The investigation was treated as a "cybersecurity emergency" leading to the appointment of Neo at a fee of R498 000, just R2 000 below the level at which the NLC would have had to put the job out for tender.

Neo was appointed on 7 May 2020. It invoiced the NLC for its work on 28 September.

Neo has earned R26-million as a service provider to the NLC, including for the supposed "cybersecurity breach", according to answers supplied in response to a 2022 parliamentary question .

Neo played a key role during the adjudication of the last Lotto licence, which was awarded to current holders Ithuba in 2015.