The PGA’s computer system experienced a security breach which left some files inaccessible until Bitcoin $6523.55 +1.41% are paid for the ransom, according to Newsmax. While viewers are paying attention to the match play, the PGA will be dedicating their efforts to solve the issue.
While the ransom sum is undetermined, the potential threat of another attack of this kind is still looming. On Tuesday developers that were trying to access the files encounter the following message:
“Your network has been penetrated. All files on each host in the network have been encrypted with a strong algorythm [sic]. We exclusively have decryption software for your situation. No decryption software is available in the public.”
While the hackers were kind enough to leave a wallet number and the promise of decrypting two files as a test, PGA officials have allegedly declined to pay the ransom.
Golfweek stated that the infected files were linked to promotional material which includes banners and logos for both the PGA Championship and the impending Ryder Cup. While this may impact how the tournament will unfold, although the situation poses a major inconvenience for the technical staff, along those that created the material.
The association has requested the help of an external IT team so they can save some of the files.
The PGA has not made any public comments regarding the situation as the security issues have not yet been solved.
But ransomware attacks with that demand their ransom to be paid in Bitcoin are not something new to the industry. Various institutions, from hospitals to government organizations, as well as a variety of businesses from various industries and sector, have been affected by these types of attacks.