The parent company of hotel chains including Regent, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn, InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG), has had its systems disrupted following a breach.

On Tuesday the firm revealed that its technology systems had been “subject to unauthorised activity”. This activity has disrupted IHG’s booking channels and other applications since at least Monday the firm said.

“IHG is working to fully restore all systems as soon as possible and to assess the nature, extent and impact of the incident. We will be supporting hotel owners and operators as part of our response to the ongoing service disruption. IHG’s hotels are still able to operate and to take reservations directly,” executive vice president, general counsel and company secretary, Nicolette Henfrey, said.

The firm says that it is working with relevant regulatory authorities and technology suppliers. IHG has also implemented its response plans and is engaging with external specialists to investigate the matter.

Unfortunately, IHG is rather coy as regards whether customers should be worried. As the BBC reports, the common thinking is that this is a ransomware attack but, this is pure speculation. It’s speculation that makes sense given IHG’s systems are unusable, but all manner of malware could be responsible.

Back in 2016 the firm was the target of a network security attack. Unfortunately, the firm waited until 2017 to disclose that 1 200 hotels were affected by the breach. In that breach, The Register reports that attackers were able to deploy malware that accessed payment card data which was then used to clone cards and make fraudulent payments.

IHG has said it will provide further updates “when appropriate”. If you’ve recently booked a stay with an IHG property, we highly recommend keeping an eye on your email and bank account just in case.

[Image – CC 0 Pixabay]