(VOVWORLD) - The WannaCry virus attack that began on May 12 continues to infect computers in many countries despite efforts to block and remove the ransomware virus. The global internet attack is estimated to have cost hundreds of millions of USD.
WannaCry has attacked hundreds of thousands of computers at banks, hospitals, and schools in 150 countries. It encrypts the data stored on each computer and demands a Bitcoin ransom payment of about 300 to 600USD to unlock the data.
Cyber security companies said the malicious virus using WannaCry code is able to widespread by exploiting a vulnerability of Microsoft’s Windows XP.
The list of WannaCry victims continues to prolong. Australia’s Minister of Cyber Security, Dan Tehan, said the hostages in Australia have increased three times, excluding important agencies. South Korea reported 9 cases of WannaCry infection and functional agencies have imposed necessary measures to protect computers of administrative agencies. The advertisement servers of theater chain CJ CGV were hit by ransomware. Two hospitals in Indonedia were the latest victims of WannaCry.
The global ransomware attack has caused material losses and stirred up political tension between Russia and the US. Russian President Vladimir Putin said the virus came from US intelligence agencies and the attack should be discussed politically.
Kaspersky Lab, Russia’s anti-virus company, said Russia was heavily affected by the attack with the biggest number of infected computers.
Microsoft President Brad Smith also criticized the US government, saying it should be partly held accountability because US intelligence agencies, including the CIA and NSA, possess codes that can be used by hackers.