Kewadin Casinos Slowly Recovering After Devastating Cyberattack

Kewadin Casinos, owned by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, is gradually getting back on its feet after a ransomware attack shut down gaming operations across all five of its locations. The Sunday morning attack also impacted the tribe’s health centers and various businesses, leading to an immediate service shutdown.

The Attack Damaged More than Just the Casino

The ransomware attack compromised Kewadin Casinos’ computer infrastructure, phone lines, and gaming systems, making it impossible for the operator to maintain gambling-related operations. The disruptions even affected hotel guests at Kewadin’s properties as the venue temporarily suspended new check-ins. Tribal chairman Austin Lowes confirmed the attack’s seriousness, describing its devastating impact.

This attack impacted multiple systems across the tribe. In response, the tribe has had to temporarily close many departments and businesses.

Austin Lowes, Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians tribal chairman

By early Monday afternoon, the Kewadin Casinos website, which had been inaccessible, was restored, marking the first step back toward normalcy. However, the timeline for complete recovery remains uncertain. This disruption also forced the tribe to postpone planned events like the Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Valentine’s Day Dance, previously scheduled for Friday.

Despite ongoing disruptions, tribe representatives are keeping the public informed via its official social media platforms. Tribal members have been encouraged to use direct phone lines to contact local services while the disruption persists. Officials noted they were working around the clock to restore services and gaming operations, apologizing for any inconveniences.

Full Recovery Will Take Time

The Sault Tribe has reportedly hired cybersecurity professionals to investigate the case and obtain additional information on what caused this devastating breach. While details remain scarce due to the secretive nature of the data involved, officials verified that the disruptions were part of a broader ransomware attack. Whether a ransom was demanded or paid remains unclear.

The Kewadin Casino continues the disturbing trend of intensifying cyberattacks against the gaming industry. In 2023, leading casino chains such as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment suffered breaches from ransomware group Scattered Spider, leading to multimillion-dollar losses. However, there is no indication that the same group was behind the Kewadin Casino breach.

Sault Tribe representatives estimate that a full return to normalcy would take the better part of a week, although they warn the process could take longer. Visitors eager to return to the gaming floor can regularly check social media for further updates as the affected venues gradually restore operations. Meanwhile, the tribe pledged to bolster its cybersecurity measures to prevent future attacks.