UPDATE: June 2, 2021 11:00AM CDT
The FBI is investigating the cyberattack at JBS, the world’s largest meat producer. 13 processing plants are shut down across the country. The stoppage could result in a rise in grocery store prices.
The ransomware attack poses a possible threat to the U.S. food supply. JBS is the top beef producer and second largest producer of pork and poultry in the U.S.
According to its website, JBS supplies dozens of brands including Clear River Farms, Certified Angus Beef, 1855, Blue Ribbon Angus Beef, Pilgrim’s, and 5 Star.
The company issued a press release stating it expects to be operational Wednesday. It took immediate action when it learned of the ransomware attack and is trying to restore its systems as soon as possible.
JBS has not indicated how much money the hackers are demanding or if the company paid a ransom.
JBS told the White House that a criminal group likely based in Russia was responsible. While the FBI is leading the investigation, Biden administration officials are asking the Russian government for an explanation.
The company says it is not aware of any customer, supplier or employee data being compromised.
In a Tuesday morning media gaggle, White House Deputy Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said the cyber hackers behind the JBS attack are likely based in Russia.
The hack happened this past weekend.
In a statement, JBS USA said the attack impacted some of its servers supporting its North American and Australian IT systems.
Jean-Pierre said the administration is working directly with Russia to investigate the matter.
“Responsible states do not harbor ransomware criminals,” Jean-Pierre said.
She went onto say the attack would not impact the face-to-face meeting between Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin set for later this month.
Jean-Pierre called the meeting “a vital part of defending America’s interests.”
