UPDATE: A significant power outage at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas over the weekend has led to widespread rumors of a potential cyberattack, though casino officials have firmly denied these claims. The outage, which occurred during peak hours, sparked frustration among guests and raised alarms due to recent cybersecurity threats targeting other casinos.
The outage briefly disrupted operations at The Venetian, causing issues with slot machines, Wi-Fi, and guest check-ins. Guests reported long lines at the front desk and delays in service, with one visitor on X describing check-in disruptions that resulted in wait times of several hours. A spokesperson confirmed that the outage was due to an internet disruption, not a cyberattack, and that normal operations would soon resume.
Amid the chaos, social media users circulated alarming posts. One guest noted that attendants had to hand-process payments due to system failures, which exacerbated the situation. Another user reported that phones and slot machines were down, describing the incident as ongoing, with staff attempting to manage the situation by shutting down malfunctioning machines.
This incident raises concerns, especially given the backdrop of previous technical failures in Las Vegas resorts. In 2022, MGM Resorts faced a major system outage that delayed guest check-ins for up to four hours. Just recently, police arrested individuals for stealing electrical cables, which contributed to severe power outages along The Strip.
The Venetian’s quick response highlights the increasing vigilance around cybersecurity as the resort industry faces growing scrutiny. The fears were further amplified by a recent incident where The Venetian paid a $850,000 settlement in a religious discrimination lawsuit, reflecting ongoing challenges facing the resort.
As The Venetian works to restore full functionality, guests are advised to stay updated on operational status. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and further updates are expected.
Stay tuned for more developments as this story unfolds.
