In an age where cloud services and instant messaging dominate business communications, one Japanese company has unexpectedly returned to a relic of the past: the fax machine. Quoting a report from hkitblog ,this unusual move comes after a major ransomware attack crippled its digital infrastructure, forcing employees to rely on older technology to keep operations running.
A Cyberattack with Wide Impact
According to local reports, the unnamed corporation—one of Japan’s leading manufacturers—was hit by a ransomware attack that disrupted its email systems, file servers, and internal networks. As a result, employees were unable to communicate through modern channels, leaving business operations vulnerable to complete shutdown.
In response, the company quickly reactivated fax machines, once a staple of Japanese offices, to handle essential documents and urgent communications. The move may sound outdated, but it provided a reliable workaround in the face of paralyzed digital tools.
Why Fax Machines Still Work
Experts explain that fax technology, though antiquated, offers certain advantages during a cyber crisis. Faxes transmit data through telephone lines rather than internet connections, making them immune to common ransomware attacks.
“Fax machines may seem obsolete, but they are independent of digital networks, which makes them surprisingly resilient in scenarios like this,” says cybersecurity analyst Hiroshi Tanaka. “It’s a reminder that older technologies sometimes have unexpected value.”
Japan’s Lingering Relationship with Fax
While many countries phased out fax machines years ago, Japan continues to use them in government offices, hospitals, and some private companies. Cultural preferences, strict document authentication requirements, and trust in physical copies have kept the fax alive in Japanese business culture.
This recent cyber incident highlights how this old-fashioned device still plays a role in ensuring continuity, even in one of the world’s most technologically advanced nations.
The Larger Lesson on Cybersecurity
The ransomware attack underscores the growing threat that businesses face worldwide. Cybercriminals often target large organizations, encrypting critical data and demanding payment in exchange for restoring access.
The Japanese government has repeatedly urged companies to strengthen their cybersecurity defenses, but incidents like this reveal that vulnerabilities remain. Experts stress that businesses must invest not only in preventive measures but also in contingency plans to ensure operations can continue during disruptions.
Industry Reaction
News of the fax revival has sparked mixed reactions online. Some users joked that Japan was “returning to the 1990s,” while others praised the company’s quick adaptation. Analysts, however, emphasize that relying on outdated tools is not a long-term solution.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call,” says Tanaka. “Companies must modernize their systems with robust security protocols, but also have backup methods ready in case of emergencies.”
The sight of fax machines humming again in Japanese offices may seem like a step backward, but it also reflects the resilience and adaptability of businesses facing modern cyberthreats. While fax machines may provide temporary relief, the long-term solution lies in building stronger cybersecurity defenses to prevent such disruptions in the future.
For now, the episode is both a reminder of Japan’s enduring relationship with fax technology and a warning of how vulnerable digital systems remain in the age of cybercrime.
Source: https://hkitblog.com/