Key points:
- IGT has launched a cybersecurity response plan after detecting unauthorised access to its systems
- Initial investigations suggest the breach is confined to internal systems, with no impact on consumer-facing operations
- The incident follows closely on the heels of IGT's merger agreement involving its Gaming and PlayDigital units
International Game Technology (IGT) has disclosed that it is investigating a cybersecurity breach that affected portions of its internal IT systems.
The company detected unauthorised access on 17 November 2024 and has since activated its cybersecurity response plan, involving external advisors to assess and mitigate the issue.
According to a regulatory filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), IGT has taken certain systems offline as a protective measure and is working to restore normal operations.
The company has stressed that pre-established business continuity plans are in place to minimise disruptions and maintain ‘business as usual’ for customers wherever possible. However, the financial impact of the breach remains uncertain at this time.
Good to know: The incident comes at a critical juncture for IGT, occurring just days after its shareholders approved a merger agreement involving its Gaming and PlayDigital divisions
Under this deal, IGT will sell these segments to Apollo Global Management as part of a $6.3bn transaction, expected to close in the third quarter of 2025. While there is no indication that the breach is connected to the merger, the timing has drawn attention.
This breach adds to the challenges faced by IGT in 2024, a year marked by a 2% decline in Q3 revenue to $587m and a 33% drop in operating income to $110m.
IGT continues to provide updates on the situation and has reassured stakeholders that it remains committed to resolving the issue promptly. Further details are expected as investigations progress.
