Asahi cyberattack: Japan’s beer giant delays earnings; claims shipments resuming in stages as systems recover
“While the Company is making every effort to restore the system as quickly as possible, it has decided to postpone the announcement of financial results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025,” Asahi said in a statement.CEO Atsushi Katsuki added that product supply was gradually improving.
“Regarding product supply, shipments are resuming in stages as system recovery progresses.
We apologize for the continued inconvenience and appreciate your understanding,” he added.Asahi, the maker of the popular Asahi Super Dry beer, first revealed on September 29 that it had been struck by a ransomware attack, becoming the latest global corporation to fall victim to such threats.
Ransomware attacks involve hackers using malicious software to lock or encrypt systems and then demanding payment to restore access.The company has not disclosed the identity of the attackers or any demands made.
However, hacker group Qilin believed to be based in Russia — issued a statement that Japanese media interpreted as a claim of responsibility.The attack on Asahi comes amid a wider wave of cyber incidents targeting major brands, AFP reported.Indian-owned Jaguar Land Rover recently sought emergency funding after a cyberattack disrupted operations at its UK factories, while Japanese retailer Muji halted its domestic online shopping service in October following a ransomware hit on its delivery partner Askul.
