Hackers have successfully breached Western Digital's security, gaining access to customer data in a recent attack.
Western Digital, a leading manufacturer of data storage solutions, confirmed a data breach of its online store's database on Friday. The company is currently investigating the validity of the data leaked by the ransomware group Alphv/BlackCat, which has claimed responsibility for the attack.
The data breach was discovered after an investigation into an attack that occurred in late March. According to Western Digital, the stolen data includes names, billing and shipping addresses, email addresses, telephone numbers, encrypted data (hashed and salted passwords), and partial credit card numbers.
The hack attack on Western Digital was carried out by the ransomware group DeadBolt in 2023. The group has threatened to leak stolen data if Western Digital fails to pay an eight figure ransom demand. However, Western Digital has not disclosed any details about potential negotiations with the ransomware group.
Despite the data breach, Western Digital's factories have remained operational throughout the process. The company also confirmed it notified law enforcement about the incident in late March. The FBI is aware of the Western Digital incident but has no further comment as the incident is ongoing.
In response to reports of the potential to fraudulently use digital signing technology through its consumer products, Western Digital disclosed its digital certificate capability. The company also confirmed it has control over its digital certificate infrastructure and can revoke certificates as needed.
Western Digital plans to directly notify affected customers about the data breach. Some customers have already received email notifications over the weekend. The company also expects to restore its online store during the week of May 15.
The My Cloud service was restored in mid-April. After disconnecting its systems and services from the public internet, Western Digital is making progress in recovering services. A majority of Western Digital's operations are now back up and running.
Analysts at Moody's have called the attack potentially credit negative for Western Digital due to the company's current competitive and economic pressures. Despite this, Western Digital remains committed to protecting the privacy and security of its customers' data.
Alphv/BlackCat has been leaking files it claims belong to Western Digital. However, Western Digital is currently investigating the validity of these leaks. The company urges its customers to remain vigilant and to take steps to protect their personal information.
In conclusion, Western Digital is currently dealing with a data breach caused by the ransomware group Alphv/BlackCat. The company is investigating the incident and plans to directly notify affected customers. Western Digital's factories have remained operational, and the company is making progress in restoring its online store and services. Customers are encouraged to remain vigilant and to protect their personal information.
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