JBS USA reportedly shuts down five beef plants after cyberattack

JBS says it was the target of an “organized cybersecurity attack." (Photo: David Zalubowski, AP)

JBS USA, the world’s largest meat supplier, has reportedly shut down its five biggest U.S. plants in the wake of a cyberattack.

According to Bloomberg, JBS has halted processing at its five biggest beef plants in the US, which handle more than 22,000 cattle a day.

Reuters reports JBS has stopped livestock slaughter at plants in several states.

JBS could not be immediately reached for comment.

JBS SA of Brazil notified the U.S. of a ransom demand from a criminal organization likely based in Russia, White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed Tuesday. She said the White House and the Department of Agriculture have been in touch with the company several times this week.

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In a statement, JBS USA, headquartered in Greeley, Colorado, said an “organized cybersecurity attack” impacted servers supporting North American and Australian IT systems.

“The company took immediate action, suspending all affected systems, notifying authorities and activating the company’s global network of IT professionals and third-party experts to resolve the situation,” the company said in its statement. “The company’s backup servers were not affected, and it is actively working with an Incident Response firm to restore its systems as soon as possible.”

JBS’ Green Bay property said Tuesday it shut down production in the wake of the attack, but did not say whether the closure was connected.

The reported plant shutdowns arrive as beef prices soar worldwide. According to Reuters, beef prices have surged in part because of increased demand in China and limited cattle supplies.

Kelly Tyko and The Associated Press contributed to this report. Follow Brett Molina on Twitter: @brettmolina23.

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