IGT Confirms Cybersecurity Incident and Disruptions in Operations
International Game Technology (IGT), a prominent player in the gambling industry, faced a significant cybersecurity incident on November 17, 2024, causing disruptions within its operations. The breach prompted the company to take certain systems offline as a precautionary measure.
In a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), IGT disclosed that unauthorized access to its systems resulted in operational disruptions, leading to the activation of its cybersecurity incident response plan. External advisors were engaged to investigate and mitigate the breach, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
The cyberattack impacted crucial applications and internal IT systems essential for IGT’s operations, including services related to lotteries, gambling machines, and sports betting. Despite proactive measures taken by the company, the financial impact of the incident is yet to be determined.
IGT, headquartered in London and employing over 11,000 individuals globally, reported revenues of $1.9 billion for the first nine months of 2024, underscoring its significant presence in the gambling technology market. The incident marks a troubling trend of cyberattacks targeting gambling and lottery organizations, with ransomware attacks becoming a preferred tactic for cybercriminals.
As IGT works to restore affected systems and ensure customer services remain uninterrupted, their commitment to transparency and communication with stakeholders remains crucial. Implementing alternative solutions and adhering to business continuity plans are key strategies as the company navigates the aftermath of this cybersecurity incident. By prioritizing system restoration and customer confidence, IGT aims to recover swiftly from this disruptive event.