KIA denies ransomware attack
quote:
Kia Motors America has said a recent computer network outage problem was not caused by a ransomware attack. IT outages began on Saturday, impacting both Kia and affiliated automaker Hyundai Motor America, both of which are owned by the South Korea–based Hyundai Motor Group. The issues experienced by Hyundai were not as severe as those impacting Kia. As a result of the network problems, dealers have been unable to order parts and vehicles. A smartphone app that Kia owners can use to start and warm up their vehicles remotely has also been impacted. On February 15, a Twitter user claimed in a tweet that Kia's entire United States operation had been impacted by a ransomware attack. In a statement released Thursday, Kia said: “We are aware of online speculation that Kia is subject to a ransomware attack. At this time, and based on the best and most current information, we can confirm that we have no evidence that Kia or any Kia data is subject to a ransomware attack.” The car maker said that a recovery was under way, then went on to apologize to customers who weren't able to warm up their cars at a time when much of America is experiencing severe winter weather.