Continent 8 Technologies has issued a warning to the gaming industry about the increasing and unprecedented threat posed by cyber attacks.
Marking the beginning of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the global network solutions provider noted that the threat posed to gaming operator’s cybersecurity systems has never been higher.
Michael Tobin, Founder and CEO of Continent 8 Technologies, said: “In the 25 years since Continent 8 was founded, the threat to the data, infrastructure and digital security of companies in the betting and gaming industry has never been higher.
“The scale and sophistication of these attacks is increasing year on year, so it’s critically important that organizations take a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, protecting themselves from the mix of complex threats facing businesses in today’s world. What’s also important is ensuring your business is compliant, meeting stringent regulatory requirements across different markets.”
The need for caution and sophisticated security systems has been amplified in recent weeks, given the high-profile cyber attacks against both MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment in September.
Both casino operators were hit by ransomware attacks that struck down the former’s operating systems for days, whilst the latter was forced to admit that Caesars Rewards members’ social security numbers may have been compromised through the attack.
The cyber attacks cost the operators millions of dollars in ransom payments, whilst a potentially costly lawsuit has been filed against them by customers for the damage done.
Consequently, Continent 8 is warning businesses to update their cybersecurity mechanisms given the gaming industry is becoming “a prime target” for hacking groups.
Patrick Gardner, Managing Partner of C8 Secure, a Continent 8 company, added: “With the average cost of a data breach reaching well into millions, and the gaming industry being a prime target, it’s crucial now more than ever for companies to bolster their cybersecurity measures.
“Both the online and land-based sectors must remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring protection of their data and infrastructure against increasingly evolving threats.”
Continent 8 has over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity for the gaming industry and has over 100 data centers around the world to help develop technology to protect the digital infrastructure of operators and suppliers.
The firm will mark Cybersecurity Awareness Month by running a campaign highlighting these threats throughout the month.
In a recent episode of iGaming Daily, SBC Americas spoke to Justin Albrecht, Global Director of Mobile Threat Intelligence at Lookout and former NSA operative, about the group that conducted the attacks on MGM Resorts and Caesars.
