Clorox Co. [5], a global consumer and professional products manufacturer [2], has experienced a cyber-attack that has resulted in significant operational disruption.
Description
On August 14 [1], Clorox detected the cyber-attack and promptly took action by halting suspicious activity and shutting down affected systems. As a precautionary measure [3] [5], the compromised systems have remained offline until today to ensure enhanced security [1]. Clorox has engaged third-party cybersecurity experts to aid in their investigation and recovery efforts [3] [4], and they are also cooperating with law enforcement [4]. The company is actively investigating the incident to determine the nature and extent of the breach [1].
The cyber-attack has caused disruptions in Clorox’s manufacturing and distribution processes [1], impacting their ability to fulfill orders and maintain normal operations [1]. However, they have implemented workarounds to continue serving their customers [3] [4]. Clorox has established a dedicated communication channel to keep customers [1], suppliers [1] [3], and the public informed about their recovery efforts [1].
Conclusion
This incident comes in the wake of new cyber reporting rules approved by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [2], which will require companies to disclose cyber-attacks within four days of the incident starting next month. While specific details of the cyber-attack and its impact on business operations have not been disclosed [5], Clorox is actively working to enhance security measures and has taken some of its IT systems offline. Law enforcement is investigating the incident [5], and cybersecurity experts have been called in to assist with data recovery [5]. The implications of this cyber-attack highlight the importance of robust cybersecurity measures and the need for companies to be prepared for such incidents in the future.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/clorox-disrupted-cyber-attack/
[2] https://www.scmagazine.com/brief/cyberattack-disrupts-clorox
[3] https://www.itnews.com.au/news/clorox-says-certain-business-operations-disrupted-in-cyber-attack-599212
[4] https://www.thestar.com.my/tech/tech-news/2023/08/15/clorox-says-certain-business-operations-disrupted-in-cyber-attack
[5] https://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2023/08/15/735421.htm