GMO Internet Warns Customers to Secure Computers Ahead of Threatened Ransomware Attack

GMO Internet Group urged affected customers to take precautionary measures after attackers threatened to publish personal information and launch a ransomware attack, Kanako Takahara reported for The Japan Times.

GMO Internet Group warned affected customers to secure their computers after attackers threatened to publish stolen information and launch a ransomware attack. [Photo: GMO Internet, Inc.]

The company advised affected users of its Onamae.com Desktop Cloud service to back up their data, shut down their computers and disconnect their power cables before the threatened attack deadline.

The service provides virtual private server environments used for automated foreign-exchange trading.

The warning followed unauthorized access to the company’s systems. GMO said the attackers had threatened to release customer information and deploy ransomware if their demands were not met.

The company said it would not comply with the attackers’ demands, arguing that paying would not guarantee the deletion of stolen information or prevent its subsequent misuse.

GMO also said it was investigating the incident, working with authorities and taking steps to protect affected customers.

The company urged users to follow its official security guidance and remain alert for suspicious communications.

The threatened noon deadline has now passed.

The available reports establish that the attackers made the threat, but do not by themselves establish whether the threatened publication of customer information or ransomware attack occurred as predicted.

Any later report should incorporate the company’s latest incident update.