WannaCry Ransomware Hits Tirupati, Breaches 30 Systems

The affected systems were allegedly using a pirated version of Windows XP operating system.

Pilgrims at Tirupati and Golden Temple. (Photo: PTi)

Even as the world braced itself to face the WannaCry ransomware, computers of the richest Hindu temple's governing body, the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD), were reportedly hit.

As many as 30 computer systems of the TTD were affected by the virus, according to media reports.

However, the governing body said that its main portal and website were not breached.

The systems that were affected might be using a pirated version of Windows XP operating system. TTD officials stated that no critical data was lost and no great damage was done, <i>The New Indian Express</i> reported.

Also Read: Numerous ATMs Shut Across The Country To Guard Against ‘WannaCry’

Newly-appointed TTD Executive Officer Anil Kumar Singhal held an emergency meeting after the hack. While addressing reporters, Singhal said that precautionary measures were being taken to prevent damage or further attack.

The Times of India reported that the TTD had about 2,000 computers, of which 500 systems were used for booking and online services for devotees.

We have also loaded patches released by Microsoft for further protection of all the systems as advisories from agencies have said that even computers with the latest software may be affected.

Officials told <i>TOI</i>

WannaCry is a ransomware program that emerged last week and mainly targets Microsoft's Windows operating system.

It has reportedly impacted over 10,000 organisations and 2,00,000 individuals in 150 countries.

The WannaCry Ransomware is a program that can get into your computer and lock you out, not letting you access your data until you make a payment to the hackers in bitcoins.

However, there is no guarantee that the hackers will return your access to your files.

WannaCry exploited a vulnerability in the Windows operating system with the hackers likely using a piece of NSA code released last month.

Also Read: 8 Tips to Stay Protected in the Age of WannaCry

(This article was originally published in The News Minute)