Wannacry infiltrated Windows computers, encrypted data and demanded ransom in bitcoin to return control of the files. It is estimated to have hit over 300,000 computers in 150 countries around the world, including banks, telecom companies, and other vital economic infrastructure systems. Microsoft security researchers recently blamed North Korea for the attack, using tools stolen from the US National Security Agency (NSA).
“It encrypted and rendered useless hundreds of thousands of computers in hospitals, schools, businesses and homes. While victims received ransom demands, paying did not unlock their computers. It was cowardly, costly and careless. The attack was widespread and cost billions, and North Korea is directly responsible,” Bossert wrote in his Op-ed.
