Colonel Sanders in Troubled Waters?
The debilitating high-stakes attack on crucial infrastructure that cybersecurity professionals have long cautioned about is here, manifesting as a situation that could compel KFC to shutter several locations in Japan. Colonel Sanders is not the one bearing the brunt this time. That distinction belongs to Nichirei Group, a Japanese supplier of frozen food and ultra-reliable logistics services that transport it.
Nichirei Group Faces a Chilly Challenge
Nichirei Group announced on Monday via a notice [PDF] that it has encountered “system failures due to unauthorized access.” These failures hindered the frozen food business from organizing shipments to and from its cold storage facilities or carrying out its other functions.
Chicken Chain in a Tizzy
Shortly after Nichirei Group disclosed its challenges, KFC Japan warned patrons that the delivery of supplies to its outlets would probably be impacted. Consequently, the chicken chain halted order placement through its app and website, stating that it might need to restrict menu offerings and business hours. “Certain stores may be closed based on ingredient availability,” the company mentioned.
Ransomware Fowl Play?
On Wednesday, Nichirei Group confirmed that a cyberattack was the source of the disruption and acknowledged that intruders had accessed a server containing personal data. The Group chose not to provide details regarding the incident “to avoid additional harm.” The company is hopeful to restore operations by Friday.
The inability of Nichirei Group to deliver certain services implies that a ransomware incident has rendered some data inaccessible. The reference to “further damage” indicates that discussing the occurrence could reveal information about security vulnerabilities that might invite more attacks, potentially aimed at the Group’s clients.
Cheerful KFC Promotions
KFC Japan has yet to share any details regarding store closures. In fact, the company continues to promote summer menu options, including a Japanese-style citrus and chicken combination that they claim is delightful even in the summer heat.
Summary: Messing Up the Cybersecurity
GadgetLad’s Asia-Pacific office will refrain from visiting Japan to evaluate the ramifications of this incident or sample the burgers: In moments like this, with essential infrastructure under pressure, that’s precisely the incorrect thing to do. ®
