According to Fox News, there may be a connection between the hack on Sony Pictures’ computer network and North Korea. Apparently, the malware that was placed on the computers was written in Korean; however, some think that this was a purposeful attempt to confuse investigators as to the origin of the attack. Authorities still are uncertain whether the malware was physically imbedded into the network or introduced remotely. Many have been suspicious of the motive behind the attack—that it may have been in response to Sony’s upcoming film, “The Interview,” in which James Franco and Seth Rogen attempt to assassinate Kim Jong-un.
Further, the attack has been labeled “wiper malware” and is known to “overwrite data and interrupt execution processes.” This kind of attack is the first of its kind, in that it destroys data instead of implementing denial of service attacks or stealing financial data. It also is not designed to attack a particular type of machine or computer.
The attack took place on November 24th, by a group called Guardians of the Peace. The group threatened to release confidential information about Sony if its demands were not met. This resulted in the leak of 5 films online, including the upcoming films “Annie” and “Fury,” as well as a release of a list of Sony executives and their salaries on Monday, December 1st.
The FBI is continuing its investigation into the source of the attack, and prevention measures.