Summarize and analyze this article with:

Date of Incident:
2024-04-22

Overview:

The Asahi Ransomware Attack on Asahi Group Holdings, reported on October 3, 2025, occurred on April 22, 2024, affecting its operations within the Holding Companies & Conglomerates sector. The breach led to the shutdown of factories in Japan, suspension of automated order and shipment processes, and a forced switch to manual processing. Data theft evidence is being investigated to determine the full extent of unauthorized data transfers. Technically, attackers exploited Windows systems, possibly through stolen credentials or phishing, executing ransomware that encrypted critical factory systems. Key tactics included disabling security services and backups, and using custom scripts for lateral movement. The malicious activity generated suspicious IP traffic linked to Eastern Europe, targeting registry modifications to reinforce persistence.

>>Outpace Attackers With AI-Based Automated Penetration Testing

Impact:

System failure causing shutdown of factories in Japan, suspension of system-based order and shipment processes, forced switch to manual processing, evidence of data theft from compromised devices, investigation ongoing to determine scope of data unauthorized transfer.

Details:

The Asahi ransomware attack involved the exploitation of Windows systems used in factory operations within Japan. The attack maps to MITRE ATT&CK techniques T1486 (Data Encrypted for Impact) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as the attacker gained initial access likely via stolen credentials or phishing. The ransomware payload executed encryption routines on factory critical systems causing operational shutdown. IOCs include known ransomware-related hashes, suspicious IP traffic to command and control servers in Eastern Europe, registry modifications to disable security services, and system logs showing unauthorized access and encryption events. Payload behavior includes deleting system restore points and disabling backups to prevent recovery. Forensics traced custom PowerShell scripts used for lateral movement and persistence.

Remediation:

Vendor guidance includes applying the latest Windows security patches, disabling SMBv1 protocol, implementing network segmentation and zero trust principles. Temporary mitigations involve isolating affected networks, blocking identified C2 IPs, enforcing multifactor authentication, and increased monitoring of privileged account activity. Known workarounds comprise using offline backups to restore encrypted systems and conducting regular ransomware simulation exercises.

Takeaway for CISO:

This ransomware incident significantly disrupted Asahi’s manufacturing operations and exposed sensitive data. CISOs must prioritize comprehensive identity and access management to thwart credential misuse and enforce a layered defense. Ensuring robust incident response protocols and regular system patching is crucial to reducing ransomware risk.