The BBC reported that a ransomware attack targeting the major brewing conglomerate, Asahi, may have led to a data breach. According to The Drinks Business, the attack took place on Sept. 29, and the brewing giant is still trying to recover almost a month later.
“As we continue investigating the extent and details of the impact, focusing on the systems targeted in the recent attack, we have identified the possibility that personal information may have been subject to unauthorized data transfer,” a report said according to The BBC. “Should the investigation confirm this, we will promptly notify those concerned and take appropriate measures in accordance with applicable laws on the protection of personal information.”
The attack forced Asahi to shut down its business and led to a shortage of Asahi’s products, including bottled tea, throughout Japan. Japanese 7-Elevens and Family Marts informed customers to expect a shortage of products from the brewing giant, according to The BBC on October 3. The brewer shared in a statement that it could not provide “a clear timeline for recovery” from the attack, which rendered Asahi unable to receive emails from external sources.
The Drinks Business reported on Monday that other major brewers in Japan from brands like Suntory Holdings and Sapporo Breweries announced that they would partially halt sales of beer after receiving a flood of orders due to Asahi being out of commission.
Cyberattacks are on the rise — and most companies aren’t prepared for them
According to CNN, experts in cybersecurity reported that many Japanese corporations do not have the skills or preparations in place to handle such attacks, especially ransomeware attacks. The country additionally faces a serious shortage of cybersecurity professionals, and that 116 ransomeware attacks took place in the first 6 months of 2025.
Cyberattacks appear to be on the rise, and in July the NovaBev Group, a parent company behind multiple Russian wine shops and a popular vodka brand, experienced an “unprecedented” ransomeware attack, and the hackers demanded a payment. The vodka brand did not comply.
As for the attack behind Asahi, it is uncertain if the attackers demanded Asahi pay a ransom, and the company shares that authorities are still investigating the incident.
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