MGM’s Macau Properties Not Impacted by Cybersecurity Attack On MGM Resorts

Summary:

• MGM Resorts reported on Sept 11 that it’s dealing with a “cybersecurity incident”
• The incident affected MGM’s US properties but venues in Macau were not impacted
• Reports suggest a group of hackers may have targeted the MGM empire

MGM casinos in Macau have not been affected by a cybersecurity incident at the group’s properties in the US. MGM China Holdings Ltd has confirmed that it’s business as usual at MGM Macau and MGM Cotai, as both casino resorts have their own independent IT systems. MGM Resorts International is the parent company of MGM China.

MGM Resorts has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the incident. The casino operator has not declared it a cyberattack but has sought the help of the FBI to look into the cause of the incident.

MGM Macau Properties Spared as Investigations Continue

MGM Resorts International reported on September 11 that it detected a cybersecurity incident on its computer network which impacted the operations of its properties throughout the US.

The incident, which started on September 10, resulted in the shutdown of various electronic services, with customers unable to withdraw from cash machines, make online check-ins and credit card transactions and enter their rooms. MGM websites and its mobile app have also been reportedly down, with slot machines and paid parking also unavailable.

The press release did not delve into the details as to what properties have been affected and how the cybersecurity incident occurred. MGM Resorts also did not disclose the amount of losses it incurred arising from the incident.

MGM’s properties in Macau, which it operates via its Chinese subsidiary MGM China, have not been impacted by the incident.

“Scattered Spider” Hacking Group May Be Responsible for the Attack

It remains uncertain whether MGM was hit by a cyberattack as the company has yet to release a new statement on the matter, but according to sources, the incident may have been perpetrated by a group of hackers named “Scattered Spider”.

Two sources familiar with the situation revealed that the group brought down MGM’s systems, and the same group may also be responsible for a separate hacking incident that reportedly hit another casino operator, Caesars Entertainment.

This isn’t the first time that MGM has been hit by cybersecurity issues. In 2019, hackers reportedly infiltrated one of its servers, compromising over 10 million customer records.