The recent wave of cyberattacks targeting the global casino and hospitality industries has raised alarm bells. Carey van Vlaanderen, CEO of ESET South Africa, says smaller chains, online gaming sites and their customers are equally susceptible. Fortunately, there are steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of their personal details being compromised.
Sophisticated cyberattacks, like the one reported by MGM Resorts in the US, in which digital room keys stopped working and manual payouts were required for slot machines, are a stark reminder that cybercriminals are organised and highly skilled. However, it’s not only major international brands that have been compromised. Smaller entities have faced security breaches too. Another case in 2023 involved a ransomware attack on a small US-based casino chain. According to reports, hackers spent four months exploring systems after breaching the company network, via a targeted phishing email sent months before. Van Vlaanderen says cyberattacks can occur at any time, with increased likelihood during periods of heightened activity