The Vegetable Marketing Organization (VMO) announced today that it detected a ransomware attack on part of its computer systems on Monday.

Preliminary findings are that the incident involves the Cheung Sha Wan Vegetable Wholesale Market’s gate and accounting systems, which contain particulars of about 7,000 market users.

The VMO is conducting an investigation to assess whether any personal data has been leaked and it will promptly notify affected individuals as necessary.

The market is maintaining normal operations overall, with processes such as invoicing and payments being handled manually. The VMO has engaged an external contractor to expedite system restoration and assist with the investigation.

Upon discovery of the incident, the VMO immediately suspended the operation of its network systems and disconnected relevant computer servers from external connections to prevent further hacker intrusion.

The incident has been reported to the Police Force, the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre, and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data.

The VMO said it will conduct a comprehensive review of the incident and strengthen its information and network protection measures to prevent recurrence of similar incidents.

Call 2710 0964 or 2710 0931 for enquiries.