London Drugs hackers seek millions in ransom on claims of stolen employee data [Video]

London Drugs has confirmed that the cybersecurity breach that forced it to close stores across Western Canada for more than a week was a ransomware attack.

In a statement, the company said there remained no indication that customer or “primary employee” data was accessed. But it confirmed that the attackers were able to steal files from its corporate head office, some of which may include employee information.

“London Drugs is unwilling and unable to pay ransom to these cybercriminals,” the company said.

“London Drugs is taking all available steps to mitigate any impacts from these criminal acts, including notifying all current employees whose personal information could be potentially impacted.”

The attackers are seeking a ransom of $25 million and threatening to post the stolen data on the dark web, according to threat analyst Brett Callow, with New Zealand-based cybersecurity company Emsisoft.

Callow said notorious ransomware operation LockBit has claimed responsibility on its …