Japanese Firms Suffer Long Tail of Ransomware Damage

darkreading

December 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM

Actively Exploited

Overview

Japanese companies, including manufacturers and retailers, have fallen victim to a series of ransomware attacks that have severely disrupted their operations. These incidents have affected not only private businesses but also government entities, leading to prolonged recovery times that can stretch over several months. The attackers are leveraging vulnerabilities in systems to encrypt critical data, causing significant financial and operational losses. As organizations struggle to restore services and secure their networks, the situation raises concerns about the overall cybersecurity posture in Japan. This trend highlights the need for improved defenses against ransomware, especially for sectors that are vital to the economy.

Key Takeaways

Active Exploitation: This vulnerability is being actively exploited by attackers. Immediate action is recommended.
Affected Systems: Manufacturers, retailers, Japanese government systems
Action Required: Organizations should enhance their cybersecurity measures, conduct regular backups, and implement robust incident response plans.
Timeline: Ongoing since several months

Original Article Summary

Ransomware actors have targeted manufacturers, retailers, and the Japanese government, with many organizations requiring months to recover.

Impact

Manufacturers, retailers, Japanese government systems

Exploitation Status

This vulnerability is confirmed to be actively exploited by attackers in real-world attacks. Organizations should prioritize patching or implementing workarounds immediately.

Timeline

Ongoing since several months

Remediation

Organizations should enhance their cybersecurity measures, conduct regular backups, and implement robust incident response plans.

Additional Information

This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.

Related Topics: This incident relates to Ransomware, Critical.

Read Original Article

Related Coverage

Microsoft disrupts massive RedVDS cybercrime virtual desktop service

BleepingComputer

Microsoft has successfully disrupted RedVDS, a significant cybercrime platform that has been linked to approximately $40 million in losses reported in the U.S. since March 2025. The platform was known for offering a virtual desktop service that criminals used to conduct various illegal activities. This disruption is a major step in combating cybercrime, as it not only targets the infrastructure used by attackers but also aims to deter future criminal operations. The impact of RedVDS has been felt widely, affecting numerous victims who have suffered financial losses due to the platform's activities. By taking action against RedVDS, Microsoft is contributing to a broader effort to enhance cybersecurity and protect individuals and businesses from ongoing threats.

Jan 15, 2026

QR codes are getting colorful, fancy, and dangerous

Help Net Security

QR codes are increasingly being stylized with colors and shapes, leading to new security risks. Researchers from Deakin University have identified that these visually appealing QR codes can be manipulated in 'quishing' attacks, where attackers trick users into scanning harmful codes. The assumption that QR codes are safe can make users more vulnerable to these scams. The study proposes a new method to detect compromised QR codes based on their structural analysis. This research emphasizes the need for users to remain cautious and critically evaluate QR codes, similar to how they approach links in emails or websites.

Jan 15, 2026

Verizon outage affects over 2 million users: What 'SOS' means, refunds, more updates

Alleged Dell data compromise raises skepticism

SCM feed for Latest

A recent report has cast doubt on the authenticity of a claimed data breach involving Dell. The incident allegedly compromised a database containing over 5,000 records, which include emails from more than 2,000 employees. However, security experts and researchers are questioning the validity of this breach, suggesting the information may not be as serious as it appears. If true, this situation could expose sensitive employee data, raising concerns about privacy and security within the company. As investigations continue, it remains essential for organizations to remain vigilant about potential data breaches and to verify claims before reacting.

Jan 15, 2026

Exposed Target source code legitimate, employees say

SCM feed for Latest

Recent reports confirm that internal source code and documentation from Target Corporation has been exposed on the public software development platform Gitea. Current and former employees verified the authenticity of the leaked materials, raising concerns about potential security vulnerabilities and misuse of sensitive information. The exposure of this source code could allow malicious actors to exploit weaknesses in Target's systems, potentially leading to data breaches or other security incidents. This situation not only affects Target but also raises alarms for customers and partners who rely on the company for secure transactions. It highlights the ongoing risks associated with software development platforms and the importance of securing proprietary code.

Jan 15, 2026

Intensified curtailment of North Korean cyber threats sought by US

SCM feed for Latest

The U.S. is calling on United Nations member states to strengthen sanctions against North Korea, particularly targeting its IT worker scheme and cryptocurrency thefts. These activities are believed to finance North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. By pressuring other nations to take action, the U.S. aims to limit North Korea's ability to fund its military ambitions through cybercrime. This situation raises concerns among international cybersecurity experts, as North Korean cyber operations have become increasingly sophisticated and threatening. The focus on sanctions reflects a broader strategy to curb the regime's funding sources and deter its aggressive military posture.

Jan 15, 2026