WSJ Tech News Briefing: TNB Tech Minute

Episode: Salesforce-Linked Security Breach Fallout Escalates
Date: October 15, 2025
Host: Julie Chang

Overview

This episode of the WSJ Tech News Briefing focuses on the escalating fallout from a significant security breach linked to Salesforce. The host, Julie Chang, reports on the hackers' claims, the companies affected, industry responses, and touches on notable financial and tech innovation updates from institutions like Bank of America, ASML, and Workday.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Salesforce-Linked Security Breach Escalates

[00:13]

• Over the weekend, hackers claimed to have published data from more than 5 million Qantas Airways customers, including names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth.
• Financial data was reportedly not included.
• The breach extends to dozens of companies’ Salesforce accounts—allegedly including Disney, Ikea, and Toyota.
• Extortion Attempt: Hackers demanded a ransom from Salesforce, threatening to publish more customer data.
• Salesforce’s Response:
  • A spokesperson stated: "The company wouldn't engage, negotiate with or pay any extortion demand." (Julie Chang, 00:46)
• This incident is believed to be one of the first confirmed large-scale data dumps by these hackers.
• Qantas Response:
  • Qantas is still investigating the full scope and impact.

2. Bank of America: AI Investment Results

[01:06]

• The bank highlighted ongoing momentum from its investments in technology and artificial intelligence in the latest quarterly results.
• CEO's statement: Digital innovation is driving increased client engagement and operational efficiency.
• Results signal strong growth in both loans and deposits, as well as rising revenues from fees.

3. ASML: Surging Chipmaker Orders

[01:28]

• Dutch chipmaking equipment manufacturer ASML reported Q3 equipment orders equivalent to $6.27 billion, more than double compared to last year.
• The surge is attributed to persistent global investment prompted by the “AI frenzy.”
• ASML is now Europe’s largest company by market value; stock is up nearly 30% year-to-date.

4. Workday: Major AI Investment in Ireland

[01:45]

• Workday announced a plan to invest $202.5 million to establish an AI research center in Ireland, creating 200 specialized jobs.
• The company has recently been focused on expanding its AI offerings, unveiling a suite of new HR and finance AI agents.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “Hackers claim to have compromised dozens of companies by gaining access to their Salesforce accounts … including Qantas, Disney, Ikea, and Toyota.”
  — Julie Chang, 00:28

• “A Salesforce spokesperson said the company wouldn’t engage, negotiate with, or pay any extortion demand.”
  — Julie Chang, 00:46

• “The leak appears to be one of the first confirmed data dumps from the hackers. Qantas said it’s continuing to investigate.”
  — Julie Chang, 00:55

• “Bank of America highlighted continued momentum from its technology and artificial intelligence investments. In the latest quarterly results, the bank’s CEO said digital innovation is driving both client engagement and operational efficiency.”
  — Julie Chang, 01:06

• “ASML posted better than expected orders of its chipmaking equipment for the third quarter amid continued spending in the AI frenzy. … Shares are up nearly 30% so far this year.”
  — Julie Chang, 01:28

• “Workday plans to invest the equivalent of $202.5 million to set up an AI focused research center in Ireland. The move would create 200 jobs specialized in AI in the country.”
  — Julie Chang, 01:45

Timestamps for Key Segments

• Salesforce Security Breach Escalation: 00:13 – 00:59
• Bank of America AI Momentum & Financials: 01:06 – 01:21
• ASML Chipmaking Orders & Market Position: 01:28 – 01:44
• Workday AI Investment in Ireland: 01:45 – 02:07

Summary

This rapid-fire Tech Minute zeroes in on the widening impact of the Salesforce-linked data breach, affecting major global brands and raising ransom demands that Salesforce refused. The episode also delivers high-level updates on the positive market momentum enjoyed by leading tech and finance firms amid continued AI investments, and highlights a major new AI job initiative by Workday in Ireland. The tone remains matter-of-fact, delivering vital information for listeners tracking the latest in tech security, innovation, and industry leadership.