Bandai Namco says it ‘can’t deny’ personal info was leaked in Asia data breach

Bandai Namco has said that it ‘can’t deny’ that customer information was potentially leaked following its investigation into a recent data breach.

In July a ransomware group called ALPHV claimed to have “ransomed Bandai Namco”, suggesting it had acquired confidential files. The same month, the company confirmed the hack and said it was investigating.

On Tuesday, Bandai Namco shared some of the results of its early investigation work, stating that it could not rule out that customer information had been part of the leak, which it said was restricted to its Toys and Hobby Business in the Asia region (excluding Japan).

“As a result of the subsequent investigation, it has become clear that the possibility of external leakage of information related to the Toys and Hobby business in the Asian region (excluding Japan) cannot be denied,” it said.

“Although we have not confirmed any external leakage of information or such claims related to the unauthorized access in question at this point of time, we will continue to pay close attention to the situation.”

The company said it has now reinforced its security and IT systems with external agencies, and inspected its facilities worldwide.

“We deeply apologize to all those involved for the considerable concern and inconvenience this may cause. Any future matters and such like requiring disclosure will be announced without delay.”

According to vx-underground, which bills itself as the largest collection of malware source code, samples, and papers on the internet, the ALPHV ransomware group claimed to have ransomed Bandai Namco in July.

Ransomware is a type of malicious software used by cybercriminals to extort money from victims.