MGM Resorts, one of the largest gaming companies in the US, seems to finally be on the mend after a series of cyber-attacks that influenced almost every aspect of MGM’s operations in Las Vegas and other parts of the country.
MGM properties, which own 50% of the online BetMGM Casino and Sportsbook, have been under siege for the past ten days, with attackers targeting everything from slots on casino floors to various online systems. The consequences have been dire, resulting in tens of millions in daily losses and many unhappy customers.
According to the latest updates from MGM, things have mostly gotten back to normal, with all major systems fully operational. Reports from the ground, however, coming from different Las Vegas-based vloggers and influencers, indicate that there are still quite a few issues — and that “normal” is not exactly the word they would use the describe the situation.
REVIEWBONUS- Generous welcome bonus
- $25 in no deposit funds
- Good selection of slots
Largest Cyber Attack in Vegas History
The first signs of problems appeared on Sunday, September 10. A number of slot machines across MGM properties went dark suddenly, while hotel guests experienced problems with reservations and room keys.
In the days to follow, the situation did not improve: as one problem went away, several more would pop up. For example, even the slots that were functioning could not pay out tickets, so players had to wait for casino employees to issue hand pays, even for the smallest of amounts.
To make matters worse, there are rumors, albeit not confirmed, that hackers gained access to the personal information of MGM employees and guests, including very sensitive data such as social security numbers.
Amid chaos, Caesars Entertainment, another gaming giant, issued a statement, admitting they, too, were victims of a cyber-attack a couple of weeks ago. However, the consequences of that attack were not felt on the same scale. As per the CNBC report, the company agreed to pay the perpetrators $15 million, half of the amount the hackers originally asked for.
While there is no information about ransom demands towards MGM, the scale of the attack suggests that the company refused to negotiate with hackers, and experts estimate that this attack is costing them 10 to 20 percent in daily revenues.
Dealing With the Fallout
It has been a rough ten days for MGM as the company tried to deal with the fallout the best it could, bringing in extra staff to the casinos to help with day-to-day operations such as hotel reservations and slot payouts.
The company has also set up a special FAQ page, answering people’s biggest questions and concerns regarding reservations, shows, gaming, and more. MGM has also allowed free cancellations for anyone with reservations through September 24.
The situation has been improving over the last two days, and while it will take some time before everything is completely back to normal, it at least appears that the company has regained control of its systems. However, the attack of this scale has much bigger implications.
Las Vegas Entertainment Industry Shell-Shocked
Recent attacks against MGM and Caesars have shown that the largest companies in Las Vegas are also the biggest targets, and the results of these attacks have showed that, despite all the billions in revenue, these giants are far from immune to skilled hackers.
MGM may have managed to get things back under control for now, but many are concerned about future implications. In November, Las Vegas will host its first-ever F1 race, and the city will be jam-packed with visitors. A similar attack during the F1 weekend could create chaos.
It is safe to assume that, in the weeks to follow, all Las Vegas casinos will devote time and resources to reinforce their security and plugging any leaks they find in their systems. Will that be enough to prevent future attacks, especially after recent events have uncovered their vulnerability to the world? Only time will tell.
