Network system info leaked at Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Limited

TOKYO: Information on the network system of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Limited has leaked after servers and computers of Japan's largest defence contractor were infected with viruses, possibly enabling unauthorised access, sources said today.

According to company officials, a total of 45 servers and 38 computers were found infected with eight types of viruses at a total of 11 company facilities in Japan, including its headquarters in Tokyo and shipbuilding yards in Nagasaki and Kobe.

The company has found that information on the network system, such as IP addresses, was leaked as infected servers were forcibly connected to overseas websites.

It said on its website yesterday that while its servers and computers have been infected with viruses which may have enabled unauthorised access, it has not so far confirmed breaches of any data regarding its products and technology.

Fresh cyber attacks on the manufacturer's system could be carried out based on the leaked data, the sources said.

Meanwhile, upon receiving a damage report from the company, police will investigate charges of breach by offenders through unauthorised access, forcible obstruction of business and creation of computer viruses, the sources said.

Following the development, Chief Cabinet Secretary Osamu Fujimura said today the government will collect information and deal with cyber attacks not only on government systems but also those of private companies.

Defence Minister Yasuo Ichikawa said his ministry will instruct Mitsubishi Heavy to tighten the security of its computer systems. He also said the ministry may launch its own investigation into the case.

Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano also urged private firms that hold government data such as procurement and security information to take further steps to prevent leaks.