seniorspectrumnewspaper – Asahi, Japan’s largest brewer, has been forced to halt beer production at most of its 30 factories due to a ransomware attack. The cyber-attack, which took place late last month, disrupted everything from beer shipments to the company’s accounting systems. As a result, Asahi temporarily paused operations across many of its facilities.
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Since the attack, all of Asahi’s plants have partially reopened, and production has resumed. However, the company is still struggling with computer system failures. In the absence of functioning digital systems. Staff have resorted to using pen, paper, and fax machines to process orders and manage operations.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Asahi confirmed that it is investigating whether the attack resulted in stolen personal data. The company’s Emergency Response Headquarters is working with cybersecurity experts to restore its systems as quickly as possible. Asahi assured the public that it would contact anyone affected by the breach if the investigation confirms data theft.
The company also acknowledged that the attack may have involved unauthorized data transfers. While the investigation continues, Asahi stated it will promptly inform those affected if it confirms any personal information was compromised. It will take the necessary legal steps to ensure compliance with personal data protection laws.
The Broader Impact of the Attack and Company Response
Asahi Group owns several well-known global beer brands, including Peroni, Grolsch, and Pilsner Urquell. As well as Fullers in the UK. However, the company clarified that the ransomware attack affected only its operations in Japan, which account for roughly half of its sales. Asahi has not provided specific details about the personal information that may have been stolen, citing the ongoing investigation.
Asahi apologized for the disruptions caused by the cyber-attack and highlighted the challenges it faces in restoring normal operations. Due to the disruption, the company announced a delay in releasing its third-quarter financial results. Normally, the results would be disclosed within 45 days of the quarter’s end, but Asahi will postpone the release until it fully restores its systems. The company will determine the exact timing based on how quickly it can recover its computer systems.
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The ransomware group responsible for the attack, Qilin, is reportedly based in Russia. This group has previously targeted other high-profile organizations, including the NHS. The attack on Asahi is just the latest in a series of cyber incidents affecting major global companies. This year alone, several major UK companies, including Jaguar Land Rover, Marks and Spencer, and Co-op, have fallen victim to similar cyber-attacks.
According to the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, the number of “nationally significant” cyber-attacks has risen dramatically in the past year. On average, the UK experiences four major cyber incidents every week. The NCSC has urged businesses to take stronger measures to protect themselves from such attacks and minimize the impact of future breaches.
