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According to vx-undergrounda Twitter account tracking malware, Hacker group ALPHV reportedly infiltrated the game publisher Bandai Namco† By violating the company’s network security, the group claims to have successfully “bought out” the publisher.
Ransomware is software that systematically enters and encrypts all files and information on a system or systems. When the process is complete, those in charge then have the information released to the owners. This has been a popular form of extortion for the past ten years.
While surprising news, this isn’t the first ransomware attack on a gaming company. In 2020, Capcom was compromised by an attack, followed by attacks on Electronic Arts and CD Projekt Red in 2021. All three companies refused to pay the ransom.
One thing to remember: we’re not just talking about games in these attacks. The hacker groups grab as much information as is available and also encrypt it. In the past, these attacks have caused employee information, company finances, and more to become public.
We have reached out to Bandai Namco for comment and will update the story with any relevant information.
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