Stolen Halloween: US candymaker suffers ransomware attack

Ferrara, American candy manufacturer which owned by the Ferrero Group, has been hit by the ransomware attack. Its systems were affected at the most important time for a candy-maker - before Halloween.

Ferrara is the creator of Everlasting Gobstoppers, Atomic Fireballs, Lemonheads, Now and Later, Nerds, SweeTarts, Laffy Taffy, Red Hots, Boston Baked Beans and other popular candy brands.

On October 9 Ferrara's employees first noticed that cyber attackers were encrypting their PCs and requiring a ransom. Therefore the company has hired outside experts to help restore its network.

Upon discovery, we immediately responded to secure all systems and commence an investigation into the nature and scope of this incident.

The company also reassured its customers, saying that the incident would not prevent the upcoming holiday:

Ferrara's Halloween products are on shelves at retailers across the country ahead of the holiday.

The spokesperson declined to answer what percentage of orders it expected to fill before Halloween. According to him, all of Ferrara's candy distribution centers are currently shipping the products.