News for the Hospitality Executive |
On Public Computer Security Risks “Are you properly protected?” – Lodging Magazine April Issue |
Nashville, Tenn. (April 8, 2010) – Uniguest CEO and Co-founder
Shawn Thomas is exclusively quoted in an article in the April 2010
issue of Lodging Magazine—the leading monthly
publication of the hotel and resort industry- about the risks hoteliers
and
travelers face with identity fraud and other security risks when
providing and
using hotel LobbyPC and business center computer systems. The article cites a specific case of a hacker installing key logging software on an improperly protected computer in a hotel property. The hacker used this software to gain password-protected access to hotel guests reward points among other accounts. “Over the last decade, we have spent much time and energy on education of the industry for the benefit of both hoteliers and travelers and it is starting to gain traction among the larger hotel brands and chains,” says Uniguest Chief Executive Shawn Thomas. “The more forward thinking chains have already or are beginning to implement brand wide franchise standards that set forth specific measures franchisees must take to protect hotel guests from computer fraud. Even though there are documented criminal cases where individuals have been tried and prosecuted for using hotel business centers to gain password-protected access to user bank accounts and more, many of the nation’s largest hotel chains do not have computer security standards in place. Hoteliers are urged to seek out an expert vendor to perform security tests on existing computer systems dedicated for guest-use to determine if that computer is vulnerable to hacking. Click here for ABC News video. Uniguest provides a complimentary analysis for hotels called SecuredAnalyzer™. This analysis will illustrate any and all vulnerabilities and provide recommended steps to become compliant. Hotels can protect their guests and themselves by following the guidelines outlined by Uniguest CEO Shawn Thomas—as highlighted in the April 2010 issue of Lodging Magazine. About UniguestTM Uniguest is a diversified company providing print, technology and specialized services globally for the hospitality, healthcare and other industries. Products and services include custom printed publications, security software solutions, self-serve kiosk solutions, advertising sales and help-desk computer support. More information is available at www.uniguest.com. |
Contact:
Rosemary Kelly Marketing and Communications Director Uniguest™ 1035 Acorn Drive Nashville, TN 37210 866-398-8729 ext 126 [email protected] |