A major bakery chain has been hit by a ransomware attack on its internal network, prompting Hong Kong’s privacy watchdog to seek details to assess the risk of a potential data leak.
Kee Wah Bakery, known for its local and Chinese pastries, revealed the incident on Tuesday, after its internal network malfunctioned on Friday last week.
A preliminary investigation found that a ransomware attack had targeted its system, which contains employees’ personal data as well as information related to business partners, online store customers and mobile app members.
But the bakery said it could not confirm whether any data belonging to employees, customers or suppliers had been extracted.
It added that cybersecurity experts had been engaged to prevent further attacks and carry out necessary maintenance and repairs.
“[The] company [has] begun assessing the incident and its impact, which remains under investigation and verification. At present, the company is unable to confirm whether any data has been extracted, or what data may have been involved,” it said.
“[As] a precautionary measure, the company has been contacting employees, affected customers and suppliers to alert them to the incident and advise them [on] the steps they should take in response.”
It added that no customer payment or credit card information was involved.
The company apologised and pledged to strengthen its cybersecurity measures.
“Safeguarding personal data is a priority for the company, which will conduct a comprehensive review of its cybersecurity measures and implement any enhancements its experts recommend,” the bakery said.
The company said it had reported the incident to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data and police on Sunday.
The privacy watchdog said on Tuesday evening that it had asked for details of the possible leak, including the number of people affected and the types of personal data involved.
The company also advised affected parties to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures, such as avoiding suspicious calls and regularly changing passwords for important online accounts.
Founded in 1938, Kee Wah Bakery produces locally made goods at its main factory in Tai Po. -- SOUTH CHINA MORNINGPOST
