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Based on vx-undergrounda twitter account that specializes in tracking malware, the hacker group ALPHV has reported infiltrating the game publisher Bandai Namco. By breaching the company’s cybersecurity, the team claims to have successfully “ransom” the publisher.
Ransomware is software that systematically enters and encrypts all files and information on a system or systems. Then, when the process is complete, those responsible will redeem the information back to its owner. This has been a popular form of blackmail over the past decade.
Despite the surprising news, this is not the first ransomware attack on a game 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 the game in these attacks. Hacker groups take as much information as possible and encrypt it. In the past, these attacks have leaked employee information, company finances, and more to the public.
We have reached out to Bandai Namco for comment and will update the story with any relevant information.
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