At least 30,000 U.S. organizations have been affected by the recent hacking of Microsoft Outlook, according to Krebs on Security. The hackers target stealing emails from their victim organization. Although the email software, Outlook, was gravely affected, its developer has patched the system to enhance the security of the emails. However, the White House is not satisfied with only patching and noted that it may still have a possible vulnerability.

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White House on Computer Network Operators

Despite the developer's efforts of improving the security of Outlook, the White House still invokes further actions. Channel News Asia mentioned a White House Official saying that "this is an active threat still developing," as they continue to push and urge the network operators to take the matter seriously. The White House Official added that Top U.S. security officials are working to decide and round upon the next step they should take following the breach.

U.S. News and World Report added that the patch Microsoft has done to their software still poses flaws, such as an open back door that can permit or allow access to compromised servers, leaving them open for further attacks by other hackers. The White House official furthered that "patching and mitigation is not remediation if the servers have already been compromised," adding that it is important for organizations with a weak server to implement measures that will determine if they are already the target of hackers.

As Channel News Asia reported, a Microsoft representative confirmed that they collaborate with the government and other sectors to help the victims and guide the customers. Microsoft also urged the affected customers to apply software updates as soon as possible.

Microsoft Outlook Hacked

U.S. News and World Report noted that Microsoft pointed their fingers at China as the culprit for the recent hacking and attacks on a computer network, but Beijing denied the allegation and accountability on the said attack. The mentioned back channels for remote access can affect many establishments and even government sectors such as credit unions, town governments, small businesses, and town governments. Because of this, the officials from the United States are making efforts to reach the victims, urging them to contact the law enforcement agency.

Since Microsoft has patched the holes in the servers, Krebs on Security added that the group responsible for the attack has also leveled up their attack in any vulnerable, unpatched Exchange not only in America but worldwide. Veloxity President Steven Adair noted that their company noticed the attackers quietly abusing the exchange bugs on January 6, 2021, where most of the people are glued on their television due to the Capitol Riot that took place.

U.S. News and World Report pointed out that Microsoft and the White House have no definite knowledge regarding the scale of the hacking. However, the White House has concerns about the possibly large number of victims.

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