Hatena Reports Fraudulent Fund Transfer Involving Executive, Partial Salary Returns Announced

TOKYO, Jul 24 (Pulse News Wire) – Hatena CO.,LTD. (3930.T) disclosed a report from a special investigation committee regarding fraudulent fund transfers caused by misleading instructions from a fraud group posing as police officials.

The incident led to significant outflows of company funds. Key findings indicate that an employee believed the requests were part of a police investigation and followed through without adhering to usual procedures, resulting in substantial losses. The company's online banking settings and internal controls were also cited as contributing factors.

No evidence of personal data breaches was found. In response, affected executives have offered partial returns of their salaries for six months. Additionally, the company is implementing measures to prevent future occurrences, including stricter approval processes and enhanced security protocols for fund movements.

Hatena deeply regrets the inconvenience and concern caused to shareholders and investors and commits to restoring trust through improved governance and management practices.