How hotels can prevent cyber-attacks

Hotels are a huge target for cybercriminals due to the abundance of sensitive data they keep on file, including personal information, credit card details, and booking formation. Consequently, the hotel industry faces persistent probes that require constant attention.

Emerging cybersecurity threats

The hotel industry faces several cybersecurity threats, including ransomware attacks, phishing attacks, malware attacks, and insider threats. Among these, ransomware attacks have emerged as a prominent and increasingly sophisticated threat. This particular type of malware encrypts the data stored in a hotel’s computer systems, rendering it inaccessible to hotel staff until a ransom is paid to the attacker.

In recent years, attackers have adopted social engineering techniques, such as phishing emails, to gain unauthorised access to hotel systems. Additionally, some attackers utilise remote access tools to infiltrate a hotel’s network and propagate the malware. The consequences of such attacks can be severe, leading to substantial financial losses, reputational harm, and a loss of customer trust.

So what can hotels do to limit the threat and handle the situation in the event of a cyber-attack?

Strengthening security measures

At GSA, we recognise the distinct cybersecurity challenges encountered by the hotel industry and provide customised solutions to fortify your business. That’s why we have set up GSA Cyber Secure, with the goal to build a world-class security consultancy to deal with the current challenges businesses face.

Our passionate team of security specialists offer organisations a tailored approach to their specific security requirements and help them strengthen their security posture and become more resilient against cyber-attacks – whether that is evaluating existing security systems through Gap Analysis, pinpointing potential vulnerabilities, or deploying measures and protocols that help protect valuable data. By partnering with us, you can benefit from our expertise in securing hotel operations and enhancing data protection measures.

Getting cyber-ready

Despite this constant threat of cyber-attacks, many organisations choose to act reactively, only investing in cyber protection after the fact, when they should be implementing proactive measures to prevent penetration. By implementing robust security measures, providing employee training, and monitoring systems for suspicious activity, hotels can safeguard their sensitive data and protect their reputation. At GSA, we understand that reputation is paramount and therefore want to help hotels become more resilient to rising cyber threats, so that their worst fears do not become a reality. By adopting a Protect, Detect and Respond approach, we can assist our clients through a measured approach, to identify and protect their most valued assets, position them to be able to detect vulnerabilities and breaches quicker, and respond quickly and efficiently. We do this with each client’s specific needs in mind and tailored to their business.