Summary
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has mandated Marriott International and its subsidiary Starwood Hotels to enhance their data security practices following multiple data breaches that exposed sensitive information of over 344 million customers. As part of a $52 million settlement, the companies are required to implement a robust information security program and adhere to stricter compliance measures to prevent future breaches.
This action arises from serious allegations that Marriott and Starwood failed to secure their systems adequately, leading to significant data leaks between 2014 and 2020. The FTC’s investigations revealed that the companies lacked appropriate password controls, network monitoring, and timely software updates, which contributed to the breaches. Under the settlement, Marriott must not only pay the fine but also establish policies for data retention, provide customers with options to delete their personal information, and refrain from misleading claims regarding their data security practices. This order is set to remain in effect for 20 years, highlighting the FTC’s commitment to enforcing data protection standards in the hospitality industry.
Key Elements of the FTC Order
- Settlement Amount: Marriott has agreed to a $52 million settlement to resolve claims from the FTC and a coalition of state attorneys general.
- Security Improvements: The FTC requires Marriott to implement a comprehensive information security program aimed at safeguarding customer data.
- Consumer Rights: Customers will have the ability to request deletion of their personal information linked to their email addresses or loyalty accounts.
- Compliance Duration: The order will be in effect for 20 years, ensuring ongoing oversight of Marriott’s data security practices.
- Previous Breaches: The breaches in question involved unauthorized access to sensitive customer data, including payment card details and passport information, exacerbating concerns regarding consumer privacy in the digital age.
This FTC action underscores the increasing scrutiny on corporations to protect consumer data and the severe consequences of failing to do so.
Marriott and Starwood hotels will have to get better at data security
Dec. 23 / The Verge / Covers the FTC's actions against Marriott and Starwood comprehensively, detailing security failures and mandated improvements. Its focus on the long-term effects of the settlement on consumer trust adds depth to the ongoing narrative of corporate responsibility. “ The Federal Trade Commission on Friday it finalized (pdf) requiring Marriott International and subsidiary Starwood Hotels to improve their digital security,...
Marriott settles with the FTC for $52 million over data breaches
Oct. 10 / Fast Company / Discusses the FTC's enforcement actions against Marriott, focusing on the necessity of robust data security. It presents a critical view of corporate accountability while underscoring the need for systemic change. “ Marriott International has agreed to pay $52 million and make changes to bolster its data security to resolve state and federal claims related to major data...
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Oct. 10 / Voanews / Discusses the timeline of breaches affecting Marriott, detailing the extent of customer data exposure. While informative, it could further analyze the long-term consequences for consumer privacy. “ The head of the U.N. International Organization for Migration, or IOM, is calling for safe migration to and from the Gulf countries as the dangerous eastern...
Marriott agrees to pay $52 million settlement after multiple data breaches
Oct. 10 / The Verge / Covers Marriott's $52 million settlement comprehensively, detailing the FTC's requirements for improved security practices. It offers clear insights but could enhance engagement with consumer perspectives on data security. “ Marriott agreed to pay a $52 million settlement to 49 states and Washington, DC, over a of that occurred between 2014 and 2020, affecting more than 334...
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Oct. 11 / The Washington Post / Highlights women's issues in Maryland's 6th District race, effectively framing the political stakes involved. The article provides essential insights but could benefit from more diverse viewpoints on the issues. “ Democrat April McClain Delaney has highlighted women’s issues — including abortion and domestic violence — in her close race with Republican Neil Parrott.
Oct. 9 / Pr Newswire / Discusses advances in election security amid rising concerns over fraud and cyberattacks. The article provides a reassuring perspective but could explore potential vulnerabilities in more detail. “ INDEPENDENCE, Ohio , Oct. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As concern over voter fraud and cyberattacks loom, advances in digital security tools are making it more...
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Oct. 9 / Kiplinger / Analyzes the broader implications of Marriott's security failures within the hospitality industry. It effectively situates the issue within ongoing concerns about data protection and corporate governance. “ Since Vice President Kamala Harris entered the presidential race, she and former President Donald Trump have sparred over their approaches to lowering...
Oct. 9 / Globe Newswire / Offers a detailed analysis of the maritime surveillance market, identifying key growth drivers and future trends. While informative, it lacks a direct connection to current geopolitical events affecting maritime security. “ Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, " Maritime Surveillance Market by Application...
Oct. 9 / Cnn / Highlights the extensive fallout from Marriott's data breaches, including the FTC's findings on security failures. The detailed timeline and context provide a comprehensive understanding of the issue. “ Courts in northern Virginia and Washington, DC, have been quietly hearing cases of alleged sexual assault at the CIA for more than a year, offering fleeting...
Elon Musk puts forward three-word Joe Rogan and Donald Trump prediction
Oct. 12 / Daily Express Us / Covers Musk's predictions regarding a potential Trump-Rogan interview, offering a glimpse into the intersection of politics and media. While engaging, it lacks depth in analyzing the implications of such an interview. “ Elon Musk has admitted that he is convinced that Joe Rogan will interview Donald Trump on his podcast before the upcoming U.S presidential election. The...
Asia-Pacific markets open higher after S&P 500 and Dow hit new highs: Live updates
Oct. 10 / Cnbc / Highlights the financial and operational ramifications of Marriott's $52 million settlement, providing essential context on the company's obligations. It effectively conveys the urgency of improved data protection. “ Asia-Pacific markets are set to open higher on Thursday, following gains on Wall Street that saw the and reach new records as investors shook off...
A Gun Law the NRA Opposes Could Have Saved Its Employee’s Life
Oct. 9 / Rolling Stone / Explores the NRA's past support for red-flag laws in the context of domestic violence. The juxtaposition of personal tragedy with political implications provides a nuanced view of gun control debates. “ T HIS STORY WAS PUBLISHED in partnership with The Trace , a nonprofit newsroom covering gun violence . Subscribe to its newsletters . One week in November...
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Oct. 11 / Daily Express Us / Explores the implications of the $52 million settlement, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced security practices. While informative, it may lack depth in analyzing the long-term effects on customer trust. “ Former UFC fighter Ben Askren has called on Joe Rogan to have presidential candidate Donald Trump appear on his popular podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience ,...
Archive.org, a repository storing the entire history of the Internet, has been hacked
Oct. 10 / Ars Technica / Reports on a significant data breach at Archive.org, exposing millions of records. This piece is crucial for understanding the broader landscape of data security failures, paralleling the Marriott case in its implications. “ 31 million records containing email addresses and passwords hashes exposed.
Marriott Gets $52 Million Slap On Wrist For Massive Security Breaches Due To ‘Lax Security’
Oct. 10 / Forbes / Examines the financial implications of the $52 million settlement, questioning its effectiveness against Marriott's profits. The analysis raises important concerns about corporate responsibility in data protection. “ Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin Marriott has agreed to pay $52 million in a settlement with the FTC for its failure to keep customers'...