Lion has revealed that last week’s cyber-attack was caused by ransomware which targeted its computer systems.
The liquor giant immediately shut down key systems and IT teams and cyber experts have been working to investigate the attack and asses the length of the time the system issues will continue.
“Our focus is on bringing systems back online safely so we can resume our business as usual manufacturing, and customer services,” Lion said in a statement.
“This is taking some time, but it is necessary that we work through this properly.
“Our teams are working as hard as they can to service customers and suppliers, implementing new manual processes and investigating all alternative options.
“We recognise this is imperfect and is causing disruption to our valued partners. We also recognise this is happening at an unfortunate time as we emerge from COVID-19 restrictions.”
According to global cyber safety company Norton, ransomware is malware that locks and encrypts a victim’s computer system and demands a ransom be paid in order to restore access.
Lion says that throughout the COVID-19 shutdown, they were able to continue to brew beer safely and had stock at hand. But that the attack has delayed plans for brewing.
“Because of the situation, we have limited visibility of our products,” Lion continued. “We will be managing our stock levels very closely and may see some temporary shortages.”
“We have sufficient supply of the majority of our pack beer brands but we are experiencing temporary shortages of some of our brands of keg beer.
“Our Customer Call Centre and ordering systems are now operational. Speight’s Brewery has begun to commence production again.”
Lion apologised to customers asked for their patience going forward. We will keep you updated on the situation as it unfolds.
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