Japan’s largest port, the Port of Nagoya, is set to resume full operations after cyberattack disrupted its functioning for two days. The incident raised concerns about potential economic repercussions, given the port’s significance as a hub for car exports and a key contributor to the Japanese economy.
The cyberattack unfolded on Tuesday, incapacitating the computer system responsible for handling shipping containers, according to a statement by the Nagoya Harbor Transportation Association. As a result, the port had to temporarily halt the processing of shipping containers delivered to the terminal by trailer.
Ransomware, a form of malicious software, was employed in the attack, which typically involves locking the victim organisation’s computers and demanding a ransom payment from the affected party.
This marks the first reported instance of a ransomware attack targeting a Japanese port, triggering concerns about its potential impact on the local economy and supply chain, including the auto industry, noted Mihoko Matsubara, Chief Cybersecurity Strategist at NTT Corporation, a prominent Japanese telecom firm, during an interview with CNN.
Japanese media outlets have reported that the cybercriminal group known as LockBit, associated with Russian-speaking hackers, was responsible for the attack. LockBit has recently gained notoriety, with its activities extending to various targets. Last week, the group claimed Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC as one of its victims, although TSMC clarified that the incident had no impact on its business operations as it was limited to one of its hardware suppliers.
The successful resumption of operations at the Port of Nagoya is a significant development that alleviates concerns over the potential wider economic consequences of the ransomware attack. The incident serves as a reminder of the persistent cybersecurity challenges faced by critical infrastructure and the importance of proactive measures to safeguard against such threats.
