Bayer defeats malicious cyber attack

German pharma major Bayer (BAYN: DE) says it has neutralized a cyber threat present on its network for more than a year.

The firm reportedly had been quietly monitoring the malware, before deciding to remove it altogether. A spokesperson told Reuters there was “no evidence” that any data had been stolen, but that the impact was being evaluated.

The incident, which was originally reported by the German broadcasters BR and NDR, is believed to be typical of attacks coming out of China, although its origin has not been confirmed. German state prosecutors are said to have initiated their own investigation.