MGM Resorts International made an announcement on Monday, revealing the existence of a potential “cybersecurity matter” that has the potential to impact its diverse portfolio of hospitality, gaming, and entertainment establishments across the United States.
As of late Monday, the situation persists, with certain MGM websites encountering disruptions. To navigate these challenges, the company has advised customers to reach out via telephone for reservations and booking inquiries.
The full scope of the issue’s effects on reservation systems and casino operations remains uncertain. According to spokesperson Brian Ahern, the impact extends to properties in key locations such as Las Vegas, as well as in Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, and Ohio.
In a statement released on Monday evening, MGM Resorts reassured the public that its casino gaming floors remain functional, despite the ongoing situation. The company conveyed its commitment to actively addressing and resolving the matter.
Earlier in the day, MGM Resorts acknowledged that the situation had affected “specific systems” and had promptly alerted law enforcement. As a precautionary measure, some of MGM’s systems were temporarily disabled, and the company initiated an internal investigation, seeking the assistance of external cybersecurity experts.
Requests for comments from both the FBI in Las Vegas and the Nevada Gaming Control Board are still pending responses.
MGM Resorts manages a total of 19 properties in the United States, including renowned resorts like the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas. The company also has a presence in China.
It’s noteworthy that late last year, Nevada’s gaming board adopted more rigorous cybersecurity protocols, including a mandate for companies to report online system breaches within a three-day timeframe.
Similarly, in July, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) introduced a similar requirement for large publicly traded corporations. This regulation stipulates that significant breaches must be reported within four business days, effective December.
SEC Chair Gary Gensler underscored the significance of such disclosures, asserting, “Whether a company suffers a factory fire or a cybersecurity incident resulting in the loss of millions of files, it may hold material implications for investors.”
Barry Lieberman, an attorney at South Point Hotel and Casino, shared his perspective in a letter addressed to the Nevada board. He opined that certain regulations, though not yet in effect at the time, might be superfluous. He highlighted that most licensees already maintain cybersecurity insurance and are obligated to take preventative measures against cyberattacks.
Josh Heller, Manager of Information Security Engineering at Digi International, emphasized that contemporary cyberattacks can rapidly infiltrate organizations through deceptively genuine-looking emails that induce employees to divulge their passwords. Heller suggested that artificial intelligence could present a swift and cost-effective solution for detecting breaches and mitigating their impact.
All in all
MGM Resorts’ ongoing cybersecurity challenge serves as a stark reminder of the evolving threats facing the hospitality and gaming industry. As we navigate these uncertain waters, it’s evident that stringent cybersecurity measures, adherence to SEC regulations, and the integration of artificial intelligence are critical for safeguarding customer data and ensuring the resilience of businesses. Stay informed about the latest developments in this rapidly changing landscape to protect your organization and customers from cyber threats.
the urgency for businesses in the hospitality and gaming sector to prioritize cybersecurity. With a focus on protecting customer data and complying with regulatory requirements, companies can navigate the evolving threat landscape successfully. Discover how advanced technologies like artificial intelligence play a pivotal role in enhancing security and staying one step ahead of cyberattacks.
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