Hackers posted a new message for Sony at GitHub, a web-based Git repository hosting service. Apart from the message, they also leaked private data showing a password and some links. The leaked information seemed to be a direct attack on Amy Pascal, co-chairman of Sony Pictures Entertainment and chairman of SPE's motion picture group, and Stephen Mosko, president of Sony Pictures Television, whose names are found at the end of the message.
The hackers were the same group that attacked Sony Pictures last month. Calling themselves Guardians of Peace, the hackers threatened to launch future attacks if the studio pushes through with the release of the "movie of terrorism."
The message, which is directed to Sony, reads: "It seems that you think everything will be well, if you find out the attacker, while no reacting to our demand. We are sending you our warning again. Do carry out our demand if you want to escape us. And, Stop immediately showing the movie of terrorism which can break the regional peace and cause the War!"
While the movie title is not mentioned, it is believed that the hackers were referring to the upcoming comedy film called The Interview, which will feature Seth Rogen and James Franco. The actors will play the role of two celebrity journalists who landed an interview gig with Kim Jong-Un. However, the characters have also been instructed by the CIA to assassinate the North Korean leader.
The latest attack is so far the most explicit reference that the attackers have made to show their disapproval on the upcoming movie. It somehow confirmed that the attacks are all about trying to stop the movie from being played in theaters.
While the message clearly states that it came from the GOP, it's still unclear if the attacks should also be linked to North Korea. These speculations may be attributed to the fact that the nation has openly expressed disgust over the film and even sent out a warning.
On June 25, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) of North Korea condemned the film and promised that it would retaliate strongly when Sony releases the movie. There was even a warning that the administration would perform a decisive and merciless countermeasure if the film was released.
"Making and releasing a film that portrays an attack on our top-level leadership is the most blatant act of terrorism and war and will absolutely not be tolerated," said KCNA.
