With over 4 billion viewers, 15,000 athletes from more than 200 nations, and millions of in-person spectators, the Olympic Games are among the most-watched and celebrated global events. But while the world unites in cheering for their favorite teams, cybercriminals often view these events as prime opportunities for disruption and exploitation.

The 2024 Paris Olympic Games, it’s clear that robust cybersecurity measures will play a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. From securing critical systems to mitigating disinformation campaigns, organizers face an ever-evolving threat landscape. Let’s explore the challenges—and solutions—surrounding cybersecurity at events of this scale.

High Stakes: A History of Cyber Threats at Global Events

The Olympics have long been a target for cyberattacks. Previous games have faced challenges such as:

• Beijing 2008: Fake ticketing websites stole customer banking details.
• Sochi 2014: Hackers defaced 700 Russian websites.
• Rio 2016: Organizations faced large-scale DDoS attacks.
• Pyeongchang 2018: The infamous “Olympic Destroyer” malware disrupted the opening ceremony, disabling screens and causing widespread chaos.

These incidents highlight how cyberattacks can undermine event integrity, disrupt operations, and tarnish reputations.

Fast-Paced Preparation and Adaptive Cybersecurity

Organizing an event like the Olympics comes with immense pressure and tight deadlines. Threat actors exploit these time constraints and the complexity of setting up temporary systems to target vulnerabilities.

Key areas that require advanced cybersecurity measures include:

• Timing and scoring systems: Ensuring results remain accurate and tamper-free.
• Broadcasting and media distribution: Securing live feeds and critical data to prevent disruptions.
• WiFi and communications: Protecting network availability for accredited users.
• Press and commentator systems: Safeguarding real-time data used for live reporting.

To counter these threats, organizers need a proactive approach to cybersecurity, including:

• Deploying a threat intelligence platform to detect and address emerging risks.
• Implementing real-time information sharing to ensure quick response times.
• Using automation and AI to improve threat detection and mitigation.

Beyond the Games: External Threats to Spectators and Suppliers

The risks aren’t confined to the event venues. Cybercriminals often target spectators and vendors through phishing scams and supply chain attacks.

• Ticket scams: Fake websites and phishing emails lure victims into paying for counterfeit tickets, causing financial and emotional distress.
• Misinformation campaigns: Nation-state actors may spread disinformation to sow fear and confusion among attendees.
• Supply chain vulnerabilities: Hackers may target less secure networks of key suppliers to infiltrate larger systems.

Organizers and stakeholders must work together to educate the public, identify vulnerabilities, and protect all facets of the event ecosystem.

Collaboration Is Key: The Role of Threat Intelligence

A comprehensive cybersecurity strategy depends on effective collaboration. Sharing insights about adversaries’ motivations, tactics, and targets ensures a coordinated response to threats. For example:

• Nation-state campaigns often aim to disrupt for ideological reasons.
• Criminal organizations are motivated by financial gain, using tactics like ransomware or ticket fraud.
• Hacktivists may focus on defacing websites or disrupting specific systems to draw attention to their causes.

By fostering an intelligence-sharing network among organizers, suppliers, and security partners, the resilience of the event’s ecosystem is significantly strengthened.

Your Role in Staying Cyber Safe

It’s essential to remain vigilant:

• Only purchase tickets from official, verified sources.
• Be cautious of phishing emails offering exclusive deals or access.
• Stay informed about official cybersecurity alerts from event organizers.

For businesses supporting events of this scale, ensure your cybersecurity measures are aligned with best practices. Regularly update your systems, educate your teams about potential threats, and collaborate with trusted partners.