Kintetsu World Express (KWE), a major Japanese global logistics provider, has confirmed a significant ransomware attack that began impacting its operations in late April 2025. The incident has resulted in server outages and ongoing disruptions to parts of KWE’s business, underscoring the persistent threat ransomware poses to the logistics and transportation sector.
Incident timeline and impact
- The attack was first detected as a server failure, but subsequent forensic analysis confirmed unauthorized access by a third party deploying ransomware.
- Key operational systems were affected, leading to partial outages and service disruptions for customers globally.
- As of April 30, 2025, KWE reported that while most systems remain functional, some critical infrastructure is still undergoing remediation and recovery.
Response and containment
- KWE immediately established an Emergency Response Headquarters and engaged external cybersecurity professionals to assist with the investigation and containment efforts.
- The company is conducting a comprehensive forensic investigation to determine the full scope of the breach, including potential data exposure and the impact on customer information.
- Business continuity processes were activated to minimize disruption, with ongoing support provided to customers as restoration efforts continue.
Communication and regulatory engagement
- KWE has maintained transparency, issuing regular updates and pledging to notify affected customers if their data is found to be compromised.
- The incident has been reported to Japanese law enforcement, and KWE is working in coordination with authorities and external IT partners to strengthen its cybersecurity posture.
Sector context and threat landscape
- The attack on KWE is part of a broader trend of ransomware targeting transportation and logistics organizations in 2025, with multiple Japanese companies and critical infrastructure operators facing similar threats.
- Ransomware incidents in this sector often result in operational paralysis, delayed shipments, and potential data breaches, emphasizing the need for robust incident response and layered defense strategies.
Ongoing Restoration and Lessons Learned
- Restoration of affected systems is ongoing, with KWE cautioning that full recovery will require additional time.
- The company is leveraging industry-standard cybersecurity solutions and conducting a comprehensive environmental assessment to prevent future incidents.
“Our investigation into the cybersecurity incident is ongoing. We are assessing the extent of the incident and its potential impact on our IT systems. If we determine that a customer’s data has been impacted, we will notify them immediately.”
- Kintetsu World Express, April 30, 2025
The KWE ransomware attack highlights the operational and reputational risks facing global logistics providers in the current threat landscape. The incident reinforces the necessity for proactive security measures, incident response planning, and transparent communication with stakeholders in the aftermath of a cyberattack. The logistics industry, given its critical role in supply chains, remains a prime target for ransomware actors, making continuous improvement of cybersecurity defenses imperative.