As human deal with viruses, so are computers. McMenamins, Portlands 56 chain of hotels and brewpubs, has been attacked by ransomware that left many of its computer systems down. In ransomware attacks, cyberthieves typically take over an organization’s computer systems, blocking access or threatening to release private information unless they receive a ransom payment.
Intruders may have accessed some of its employee records, but appear to have left customer data untouched the company said Wednesday night. McMenamins said all its properties remain open but the attack took corporate email and credit card scanners offline, forcing the company to resort to alternative payment systems.
Brian McMenamin, the owner stated, “What makes this breach especially disheartening is that it further adds to the strain and hardship our employees have been through in the past two years,”“We ask that our customers give our employees extra grace as we make temporary adjustments in the way we process transactions and reservations, given the impacts to our systems by this breach. We are hopeful that this holiday season will mark a positive turning point for all of us and appreciate the patience and understanding of our loyal customers and partners.”
McMenamins said the ransomware attack was identified and blocked on Dec. 12. The company said it notified the FBI and hired a cybersecurity firm to identify the source and full scope of the attack. No customer payment information appears to have been impacted, the company said Wednesday.
