As many are aware, Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts International experienced cybersecurity breaches last week that resulted in the shutdown of casino and hotel computer systems from Las Vegas to New York. The breaches were executed by ransomware groups, who gained access through tactics like text messages and phishing emails. In the case of MGM, hackers posed as an employee and contacted the help desk to request a password reset. Caesars Entertainment quietly paid a $15 million ransom to the hackers. The breaches proved to be a logistical and financial nightmare, affecting reservations, casino floors, room accommodations, and other issues that cost both the guests and venues tremendously.
The cyberbreaches serve as a painful reminder to all that the need for cybersecurity is at an all-time high. Casino security is often regarded as near-impossible to penetrate, however, that doesn’t deter nor prevent attacks, as we already know by now; Where there is money to be had, there will be thieves and unfortunately, MGM and Caesars are all too familiar. Entertainment venues are certainly not stand-alone victims, with other major industries targeted including healthcare, education, and government agencies.
As healthcare continues to go digital through artificial intelligence and other avenues such as telehealth and telemedicine, the need to software that can ensure safe, secure data storage and protection is imperative. Although the healthcare sector has not seen the worst of data breaches, it has seen some of the most expensive; Multiple incidents have occurred within the past year of leaked personal information about patients and residents that have cost facilities hundreds of thousands. The topic of cybersecurity is no longer about if you need it, but how to implement it for maximum effectiveness.
Here are some ways to protect yourself: