Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE:H) disclosed that its payment processing systems have been hacked and infected with a malware designed to steal customers’ credit card information. The hospitality company launched an investigation and engaged the services of leading third-party cyber security experts after discovering the incident.
In an e-mail to Reuters, Stephanie Sheppard, the spokeswoman for Hyatt Hotels, said the company discovered the attack on the company’s payment processing systems on November 30. She did not provide information if the hackers succeeded in stealing the credit card information of customers, and how many of the company 627 hotels were affected.
Hyatt Hotels strengthened the security of its systems
In its website, Hyatt Hotels said its investigation is ongoing and will post updates regarding the matter. The company also implemented measures to strengthen the security of its systems.
“As always, customers should review their payment card account statements closely and report any unauthorized charges to their card issuer immediately. Payment card rules generally provide that cardholders are not responsible for unauthorized charges that are timely reported,” according to Hyatt Hotels.
Other hotel operators suffered cyberattacks
Hyatt Hotels is the fourth major hotel operator to suffer a cyberattack since October.
Last month, the payment processing systems of Hilton Worldwide Holdings (NYSE:HTH) and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide (NYSE:HOT), and Trump Hotel Collection were compromised.
Hilton Worldwide discovered that hackers targeted its point-of-sale systems using a malware to steal credit card information. The company launched an investigation worked with third-party forensic experts, law enforcement, and payment companies, and strengthened the security of its systems.
Starwood Hotels disclosed t that 54 of its locations’ point-of-sale systems were hit by a malware designed to steal customers’ credit card information. The company also launched an investigation and implemented additional security measures to prevent a similar attack.
Trump Hotel Collection released a notice to customers regarding the possibility of data security breach that affects certain customers who made payment card purchases at some of its properties. The company reported the incident to the FBI and financial institutions and engaged the services of forensic experts to conduct an investigation.
