Cyberattack shuts down Cache Creek Casino
Tech crews working to rid computer system of malware
An external attack on the computer system of Cache Creek Casino is being blamed for closing the popular Brooks resort some 10 days ago.
A Casino spokesperson reported late Wednesday that a major computer system disruption occurred and that while the investigation is on-going, it has been traced to an “external attack on our computer network.”
The attack wasn’t limited to the casino business activities but to those who have patronized the business as well as its employees, putting everyone at risk of having their electronic information compromised.
“The privacy of our guests and employees is our highest priority and we want to make certain they have some peace-of-mind,” according to a statement from the casino. “We are working closely with independent experts who regularly investigate incidents of this type to determine any risks to data security. Attacks like these are significant and can take weeks to research thoroughly.”
The casino spokesperson reported that if it is determined personal information of guests or employees was exposed, “we will notify affected individuals in writing.”
“To further reassure our community, we repeat our commitment to continued full pay and benefits for our employees during this time, whether they have been asked to report for their regular shifts or not,” according to the statement released Wednesday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Cache Creek Casino Resort will remain closed while technicians “fortify our infrastructure and restore all operations.
“Unfortunately, and as reported in the news, these computer attacks are becoming increasingly frequent, with major banks, a large healthcare company and a well-known Las Vegas casino becoming recent targets,” the statement continued. “We will be stronger from this, and we will remain vigilant in protecting our operation from these network predators. We are undaunted in our commitment to the security of our organization and the future of our business.”
No specific reopening date has yet been set, but casino personnel report they are making “good progress and expect to announce a reopening date soon.”
The casino abruptly shut down about 10 days ago due to at that time an “unforeseen systems failure.”
The Yocha Dehe Golf Club is unaffected and remains open. The Cache Creek Mini Mart remains open, but only for cash transactions and no fuel is currently available.
It is the second time the casino has been closed. Earlier this year, the casino was closed for about two months because of the coronavirus pandemic. Employees were paid during that period as well.
The casino reopened on June 6 under much more restrictive entry requirements for both staff and guests. Temperature checks and constant cleaning protocols were implemented along with increased spacing between slot machines and gaming tables to ensure there was a diminished chance of infection.
Cache Creek Casino Resort, located in Brooks, is owned and operated by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, is one of Northern California’s largest casino-resort destinations.
The attack wasn’t limited to the casino business activities but to those who have patronized the business as well as its employees, putting everyone at risk of having their electronic information compromised.