Online attack targets US Bank
US Bank fell prey Wednesday to a cyber attack aimed at America's largest banks.
A website announcement indicates the attacks come from a group called the al Qassam Cyber Fighters Group. The group has used attacks to express outrage over an anti-Islamist video on Youtube called "Innocence of Muslims," which was the same film that triggered violence throughout the Middle East earlier this year.
An explanation of the group's motives was posted on a website called Pastebin, suggesting that the group is trying to commit an offense proportional to that incurred by the film.
The attack is related to unusual and coordinated high-volume traffic intended to slow down the system, preventing consumers from being able to use the services.
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Although customers may encounter delays, U.S. bank spokesman Tom Joyce said the bank's website did not suffer major problems in the latest attacks. He said US Bank is taking steps to ensure customers' access to the website. He says customer's data and funds are secure.
"What we can assure customers, first and foremost, is that their data and funds are secure," Joyce said. He said if customers have difficulty accessing on to the website, they should call 1-800-USBANKS.
This is the second round of attacks, which started in September.
JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Financial and SunTrust have been subject to similar attacks in recent months.
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