Guangzhou guards against 'WannaCry'

WannaCry, a ransomware virus posing severe security threats to computers, affect more than 125,000 people in 99 countries on May 12. [Photo/china.com.cn]

Guangzhou-based companies have stepped up cyber security screenings after the massive global cyberattack set off alarm bells in internet security.     

At least 125,000 people across 99 countries have been affected by the spread of the "WannaCry" virus on May 12.

The ransomware crashed computers connected to the internet via a Windows security exploit, encrypting data and demanding bitcoin payments of up to $600 to allow users to regain the access to their computers.

Several network security solution providers based in Guangzhou, including Bluedon, released patches and firewalls to help people protect their systems.

Upon the outbreak of the ransomware, Blueton launched an emergency response mechanism to set up a port-level defense system to guard terminals against virus attacks and protect data and information stored therein.

Guangzhou-based companies launched emergence response mechanisms to guard data and information against the ransomware—"WannaCry". [Photo/southcn.com]

Apart from protecting its own intranet, Winhong Information Technology assisted its clients with a virtual firewall product and Wincloud patches to dissolve the blackmail.

"The information security industry has been experiencing rapid development in Guangzhou," said Yang Yubin, Bluedon chief technology officer. "It is comparable with the national first-level, and will catch up with international standard."

Guangzhou and Shenzhen are the top two favored cites by companies of information security industry, with 20 percent of the national total based in either city.

The cyber security threat was gradually put under control, as the number of computers under attack dropped significantly.