South Korean banks face major cyberattacks amid global news updates

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a comprehensive investigation into a series of cyberattacks targeting major financial institutions. Several large banks, including Shinhan Bank, KB Kookmin Bank, and Hana Bank, have reported security incidents. Shinhan Bank confirmed that the personal data of approximately 25,000 customers—including names, phone numbers, and annual income—was leaked. Other institutions, such as Hana Bank, reported smaller breaches, while Woori Bank and NH NongHyup Bank successfully repelled similar attempts.

Authorities are investigating whether hackers utilized modern artificial intelligence tools to facilitate these breaches. While no direct unauthorized payments have been detected, officials warn that the stolen information could be used for voice phishing and other fraudulent activities. The Financial Services Commission has held emergency consultations with affected organizations to address security vulnerabilities across both commercial and savings banks.

In Azerbaijan, economic reports indicate a significant increase in the money supply over the past year. The M2 money supply rose by 20.7% to 44.4 billion manat, driven by increased foreign currency supply and rising bank deposits. Additionally, construction activity in regional areas like Ganja-Dashkasan and Lankaran-Astara has seen notable growth, though experts suggest further analysis of population movement and occupancy is needed to confirm a major migration trend from the capital.

Separately, medical research presented in San Diego highlights the health risks of secondhand e-cigarette smoke. A study published in the ‘American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine’ found that children with asthma exposed to e-cigarettes at home face a 30% higher risk of asthma exacerbation and a 40% higher risk of symptoms during physical activity.