VANCOUVER, July 20 /CNW/ - Due to tremendous interest and traffic associated with the launch of casino games on PlayNow.com on July 15th, BCLC servers experienced load issues causing what is technically referred to as a "data crossover".
A data crossover occurs when one player logged into a website account is accidentally switched into another player's account while they are playing. This situation applied to 134 of the thousands of PlayNow.com accounts logged in. These 134 accounts could have been inadvertently accessed by any one of up to 105 players who were also online at the time. BCLC's assessment concludes that 12 of these 134 accounts had a measure of sensitive personal information viewed by another player. All impacted players have been contacted.
Upon learning of this situation, BCLC took immediate action to shut down PlayNow.com, enabling a full assessment to occur. BCLC's assessment, verified by third party security experts, shows no evidence of external interference or "hacking".
BCLC treats this matter with utmost seriousness. Our first priority was to notify and work with players who were impacted by this issue and address any privacy concerns. BCLC will reconcile all accounts impacted by the crossover of data as well as honour all winnings during this period to the benefit of all players involved.
BCLC is developing and testing a technical solution to address the issue that led to the data crossover. PlayNow.com will be restored when a solution is implemented that meets the highest levels of player protection and receives third party approval and regulatory certification.
BCLC thanks players who reported issues to our customer support centre, helping identify and quickly respond to this issue. Players who have questions about their PlayNow.com account can contact BCLC Consumer Services at 1-866-815-0222.
BCLC is working with the Information and Privacy Commissioner on the situation. The Commissioner has expressed satisfaction with BCLC's response.
BCLC is a provincial Crown Corporation that offers socially responsible gambling entertainment while generating income that benefits all British Columbians.
For further information: Media contact: BCLC Public Affairs, (604) 276 6460, [email protected]
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