Notice Concerning Discontinued Use of Emails Containing Password-Protected ZIP Files

Tokyo, March 15, 2022 – Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has discontinued all use of emails containing password-protected ZIP (compressed) files in the email accounts used by employees in performing their work duties.

This measure has been taken in response to the recent surge in “Emotet” malware attacks worldwide. In an Emotet attack, a password-protected ZIP file received by email, if opened, releases the malware and infects the user’s computer, avoiding the normal security check.

Discontinuation of use of emails containing password-protected ZIP files will strengthen the Company’s cybersecurity, as employees no longer run the risk of being infected by the Emotet malware.

We ask our clients, business partners, and relevant organizations and agencies for their understanding and cooperation concerning this decision.