Ransomware Attack Forces Major Japanese Online Retailer to Suspend Orders

Japan's prominent online retail company "Askul" confirmed on the 19th that due to a ransomware attack, the company's network experienced failures and has suspended order acceptance and shipments. Another well-known brand was affected and has halted online store sales.

Askul stated that on the 19th, the company detected a malware infection in its system and is currently assessing the extent of the damage, checking whether private information and customer data have been leaked. At this stage, the company has suspended services for both corporate and individual customers and canceled previously accepted orders.

Affected by this incident, Ryohin Keikaku Co., the parent company of the household goods retail brand "Muji," suspended its online store services on the evening of the 19th. Part of the company's delivery operations are handled by a subsidiary of Askul.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software that infiltrates computer systems and encrypts critical information and data, which hackers then use to extort ransom payments. According to a Kyodo News report on the 20th, several Japanese companies have recently experienced ransomware attacks. Among them, renowned Japanese brewing company Asahi Group suffered a network failure due to such an attack at the end of September, leading to production halts at multiple factories in Japan and delays in new product launches.