MGM Resorts updates on cybersecurity attack

Content Team October 9, 2023

SiGMA news

In a recent development follow the recent cybersecurity breach at MGM Resorts, a comprehensive update has been provided by the company of the incident that impacted its operations in September. In an official statement, MGM Resorts disclosed that itdetected unauthorized third-party access to select systems, resulting in a breach that exposed sensitive customer data.

Legislation for online casinos

The breach, which raised concerns across the online casino industry, involved the unauthorized access of specific customer information, including names, contact details such as phone numbers, email addresses, and postal addresses, as well as gender, date of birth and driver’s licence numbers. In some cases the incident also led to the exposure of social security numbers and passport numbers for a smaller group of customers.

Regulatory industry

However, reassuringly, MGM Resorts stated that customer passwords, bank account numbers and payment card information remained untouched and secure throughout the attacks.

Responding swiftly to the breach, MGM Resorts implemented robust security measures, including the temporary shutdown of specific systems, to protect both its operations and customer data. In a bid to get to the bottom of the matter, the company has since initiated a comprehensive investigation in collaboration with cybersecurity experts and law enforcement agencies.

To mitigate potential harm to affected customers, MGM Resorts has taken further steps by offering complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services. Customers who receive notifications about the breach are strongly encouraged to follow the provided instructions for enrolling in these services.

Not an isolated incident

The incident that has been much publicised is not an isolated occurrence within the gaming industry. Recently, Caesars Entertainment also fell victim to a similar cybersecurity breach. The comapny has reportedly paid a substantial ransom of approximately US$15 million to prevent disruptions to its operations.

In April 2023, Gateway Casinos in Ontario faced system outages due to a cybersecurity incident, resulting in the temporary closure of its locations.

Bank accounts are not compromised

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO & President of MGM Resorts,(in photo above), reached out to customers through personalised letters, expressing gratitude for their loyalty and patience during the incident. He reassured customers that the breach did not compromise any bank account or payment card information and that the company believes the attack has been successfully contained.

As the online casino industry faces these cybersecurity challenges, MGM Resorts’ response demonstrates the critical importance of safeguarding customer data and maintaining operational resilience. The incident serves as a stark reminder for businesses in the gaming sector to remain vigilant and proactive in their efforts to protect both their operations and the sensitive information entrusted to them and the need to have an airtight and robust operational risk framwork in place.

MGM Resorts’ commitment to transparency and customer support in the aftermath of this breach sets a precedent for the industry to address cybersecurity challenges head-on.

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