PlayNow Users Urged by BCLC to Change Passwords Following Cyberattack.
PlayNow users are being advised to change their passwords following a recent cyberattack.
BCLC reported that PlayNow detected unusually high traffic on its website on July 24. After analyzing the data, the increased traffic was identified as a “credential stuffing” attack, where criminals attempt to access player accounts using email addresses and passwords previously exposed or stolen from other companies.
“This is a deeply concerning incident and a cautionary tale for everyone with multiple online accounts,” stated Pat Davis, BCLC president and CEO. “Our investigation remains ongoing, but we have found no evidence that our systems were compromised or that player login information was stolen from our systems.”
PlayNow has notified affected players that their accounts were locked due to suspicious activity and has taken steps to block the suspicious traffic.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities including the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of B.C., the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, BC Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch, the Manitoba Ombudsman’s Office, the Liquor & Gaming & Cannabis Authority of Manitoba, the Saskatchewan Information and Privacy Commissioner, and RCMP have been notified.
PlayNow advises all players to change their passwords to enhance account security. Players should also ensure they are not using the same passwords for other websites and that their passwords are strong and not easy to guess.
“Integrity and security are at the core of our business and our games. We are committed to continuously evaluating and enhancing PlayNow security controls to protect our players’ information,” Davis added.
BCLC operates PlayNow in British Columbia and in partnership with the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority and Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.