International Game Technology (IGT), one of the largest gambling companies in the United States, has confirmed a significant cybersecurity incident that caused disruptions across its operations. The cyberattack on IGT, which occurred on November 17, 2024, affected portions of IGT’s internal information technology systems and applications, forcing the company to take some systems offline as part of its response.
IGT, a global leader in providing systems and technology for lotteries, gambling machines, and sports betting, disclosed the incident in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The company noted that the breach was detected when it “experienced disruptions in portions of its internal information technology systems and applications.”
Details of IGT Cyberattack
In a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Tuesday, International Game Technology disclosed that it detected unauthorized access to certain systems, resulting in operational disruptions. The company swiftly activated its cybersecurity incident response plan and enlisted external advisors to investigate and mitigate the IGT data breach.
On November 17, 2024, International Game Technology PLC (the “Company”) became aware that an unauthorized third party gained access to certain of its systems, and the Company has experienced disruptions in portions of its internal information technology systems and applications resulting from this cybersecurity incident,” reads the SEC filling.
The cyberattack on IGT impacted various applications and internal IT systems critical to the company’s operations, which include providing systems and technology for lotteries, gambling machines, and sports betting. While the investigation is ongoing, IGT has not yet determined whether the incident will have a material financial impact.
To contain the threat and safeguard its systems, IGT proactively took some IT infrastructure offline. Despite these challenges, the company has implemented business continuity measures to minimize disruptions and maintain customer services wherever possible.
A Company of Global Reach and Significance
IGT, headquartered in London, employs over 11,000 people worldwide. For the first nine months of 2024, the company reported revenues of $1.9 billion, reflecting its significant role in the global gambling technology market.
While no hacking group has claimed responsibility for the attack as of November 21, the incident follows a troubling pattern of ransomware attacks targeting casinos and lottery systems over the past year.
A Broader Trend of Cyberattacks on the Gambling Industry
Cyberattacks on gambling and lottery organizations have become increasingly frequent and damaging. Earlier this year, the Ohio Lottery fell victim to a ransomware attack that exposed customer and retailer data. The breach, which occurred on December 24, 2023, disrupted critical systems and resulted in the temporary suspension of certain services.
While ticket sales were unaffected, information about winning numbers and jackpots became temporarily unavailable on the lottery’s website and app. High-value prize claims were particularly impacted, as online processing for prizes exceeding $599 was suspended. These claims required submission by mail to the Ohio Lottery Central Office, causing significant inconvenience for affected players.
Ransomware has become a preferred tool for cybercriminals targeting the gambling and lottery sectors. These industries manage vast amounts of financial transactions, sensitive customer data, and operational systems, making them lucrative targets.
In its SEC filing, International Game Technology emphasized its commitment to mitigating the impact of the attack. The company has been actively communicating with customers and stakeholders, ensuring transparency while working to restore affected systems.
To limit operational disruption, IGT has implemented alternative solutions in line with its business continuity plans. These measures aim to ensure that services remain available to customers while the investigation and recovery efforts continue.
For International Game Technology, restoring its systems and regaining customer confidence will be paramount in the weeks ahead. By adhering to its cybersecurity incident response plan and keeping stakeholders informed, the company is taking critical steps toward recovery.
