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Hackers claim MGM cyberattack as outage drags into fourth day

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Summary

MGM Resorts has been experiencing a widespread outage due to a cyberattack that has now dragged on for four days. Guests have reported that ATMs, slot machines, digital key cards, and other electronic payment systems are out of order. The hacking group Scattered Spider has claimed responsibility, and reports suggest that they may also have been behind the recent cyberattack on Caesars Entertainment, which resulted in the theft of its customer database. Scattered Spider uses social engineering techniques to gain access to large corporate networks, and is known for recruiting minors for their lenient legal environment. Both MGM and Caesars have yet to comment on the nature of the attacks.

Q&As

What cyberattacks have been reported against MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment?
The cyberattacks reported against MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment are Scattered Spider claiming responsibility for the MGM breach and a breach of one of Caesars Entertainment's outside IT vendors.

What disruption has been caused by the cyberattack on MGM Resorts?
The disruption caused by the cyberattack on MGM Resorts includes ATMs and slot machines being out of order, room digital key cards and electronic payment systems not working, TV service being down in hotel rooms, and MGM's phone lines not working.

Who has claimed responsibility for the cyberattacks on MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment?
The hacking group known as Scattered Spider has claimed responsibility for the cyberattacks on MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment.

What data was reportedly stolen from Caesars Entertainment?
The data reportedly stolen from Caesars Entertainment includes customers' driver license numbers and Social Security numbers for a significant number of members in the database.

What advice do U.S. authorities give to victims of cyberattacks and extortion?
U.S. authorities advise victims of cyberattacks and extortion not to pay the ransom.

AI Comments

👍 It is commendable that MGM is waiving change and cancellation fees for guests arriving until September 17 in order to help those affected by the cyberattack.

👎 It is concerning that MGM has yet to comment on the nature of the cyberattack, leaving customers and those affected in the dark.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about a cyberattack on MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment. The hackers are threatening to release sensitive data if their ransom demands aren't met. It looks like Caesars paid the ransom, but MGM has yet to comment.

Friend: That's really concerning. It's scary to think that hackers can target large businesses like that.

Me: Absolutely. It makes me wonder how secure our own personal data is. It's also worrying that the hackers are targeting these companies and are now targeting casino and hotel chains. This could have serious implications for the security of our personal data.

Action items

Research best practices for cyber security and implement them in your organization.
Educate employees on the risks of social engineering and how to avoid falling victim to it.
Invest in cyber security solutions to protect your organization from potential attacks.

Technical terms

Hackers: Individuals or groups who use computer programming and other technical skills to gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data.
Cyberattack: An attack on a computer system or network, usually with malicious intent.
Outage: A period of time when a system or service is unavailable due to technical difficulties.
ATMs: Automated Teller Machines, which are machines that dispense cash and allow customers to make deposits and withdrawals.
Slot Machines: Gambling machines that use a random number generator to determine the outcome of a game.
Digital Key Cards: Cards that are used to access hotel rooms electronically.
Electronic Payment Systems: Systems that allow customers to make payments electronically, such as credit cards or online payment services.
Social Media: Online platforms that allow users to share content and interact with each other.
Dark Web: A part of the internet that is not indexed by search engines and can only be accessed using special software.
Malware: Malicious software that is designed to damage or disrupt computer systems.
Vx-Underground: A malware repository collective that collects and shares information about malicious software.
ALPHV: A ransomware gang that is believed to be a subgroup of the Scattered Spider hacking group.
Exfiltrate: To extract data or information from a computer system.
Social Engineering: A type of attack that uses psychological manipulation to trick people into giving up confidential information or granting access to a system.
Transatlantic: Relating to or involving two or more continents, especially Europe and North America.
Lapsus$: A hacking and extortion group.
8-K Filing: A filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) that is required when an event has a material effect on a company’s business.
Ransom: Money or other goods demanded in exchange for the release of a hostage or the return of stolen property.
SecureDrop: An open-source whistleblower submission system that allows journalists and sources to communicate securely.
Signal: An encrypted messaging app.