This podcast episode explores the cybersecurity crisis faced by MGM when it was targeted by a hacking group called Starfraud. The episode discusses the initial discovery of the hackers in MGM's system, the unique characteristics of the hacking group, MGM's decision to shut down its computer systems, the aftermath of the shutdown, the destructive software planted by the hackers, and the decision of MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle not to pay the ransom. The episode highlights the challenges of fighting ransomware attacks, the risks of future extortion attempts, the difficulty of apprehending hackers, especially minors, and the importance of press freedom.
