A hotel data breach – also known as a leak or unintentional information disclosure – happens when sensitive information is exposed to an untrusted environment, either accidentally or through targeted attacks.
NB: This is an article from Mews
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In this article we look at what hotel data breaches are, the common types affecting the hotel industry, their impact, and most importantly, how you can strengthen hotel data security.
The harsh impact of hotel data breaches
Guest trust and reputation loss
Guests hand over their most sensitive information – from passport and phone numbers to payment card details – with the expectation that you’ll protect it. When that trust is broken, reputational damage is inevitable. Negative press, online backlash and potential legal action can follow quickly.
Financial costs
The financial fallout for data breaches is huge. Marriott, for example, paid a $52m settlement after its breach exposed data from 339 million guests worldwide. Fines, lawsuits and class actions are a reality for hotels that fail to safeguard data.
Operational disruption
A hotel data breach can cripple operations. If systems go offline, reservations, check-ins and payments are affected. The result? Frustrated guests, lost bookings and long-term damage to brand loyalty, which is why cybersecurity in hospitality is so important.
9 tips to prevent hotel data breaches
Restrict hotel equipment to work-only use
Preventing data leaks starts with restricting hotel computers and business devices to work-related tasks. If employees use these devices to check personal emails or social media, they are more likely to accidentally install malware or fall for phishing scams. Point-of-sale (POS) computers should be used exclusively for transactions to minimize risk.
Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication
Strong password security and two-factor authentication is a must-have in hospitality to preventing data breaches. Regularly update passwords and use unique credentials for each system. Reusing the same or slightly altered passwords across accounts makes it easier for hackers to gain access. Consider changing passwords monthly and using a password manager or generator to create strong, randomized passwords.
Segment networks and control access
Segmenting networks reduces the risk of breaches. For example, guests should not have access to the same Wi-Fi network as the hotel’s property management system (PMS). Since many hotels offer free Wi-Fi, it’s crucial to have a dedicated guest network separate from the corporate network. Additionally, staff devices should be restricted to the corporate network and protected with firewalls.
Regularly update software and back up data
Backing up critical data – such as financial records, business plans, and guest information – on a separate server is essential. Daily cloud backups, along with weekly, quarterly, and yearly server backups, provide additional security. In the event of an attack, having this data stored elsewhere ensures it remains accessible. Additionally, regularly updating devices and systems with the latest anti-virus software helps protect against emerging threats.
