Hackers steal details of millions of Best Western hotel guests
SIMON JOHNSON:
Best Western has confirmed an investigation is underway into how the chain's computer defences were breached on Thursday night.
Details of how to access the information - which included home addresses, place of employment and credit card details - were sold through an underground network operated by the Russian mafia.
The attack scooped up the personal details of guests who stayed at Best Western hotels during the past year, potentially eight million people.
Tim Wade, head of marketing for Best Western GB, said it was "unlikely" that whoever was responsible got hold of the details of "every booking at every hotel" in Europe because of the way their system worked.
He added: "We are investigating further and that investigation is being led by our team in North America. They are in control of the systems.
"Best Western took immediate action to disable the compromised log-in account in question.
"We are currently in the process of working with our credit card partners to ensure that all relevant procedural standards are met, and that the interests of our guests are protected."
He said the company is continuing to investigate the "root cause", including a third-party website where the information was allegedly exchanged.
Guest with concerns should contact their local customer service team, he added. READ IT ALL
