- Details
- By Tribal Business News Staff
- Economic Development
Michigan's largest tribal nation is grappling with a widespread system shutdown after a ransomware attack forced the closure of all five Kewadin Casino locations and disrupted critical services for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, tribal leaders announced Monday.
The cyberattack, which began Sunday morning, impacted computer and phone systems across tribal operations, including health centers and tribal businesses, according to Tribal Chairman Austin Lowes.
"This attack impacted multiple computer and phone systems across the tribe, including the casinos, health centers and various businesses," Lowes said in a statement. "In response, the tribe has had to temporarily close many departments and businesses."
The tribe, Michigan's largest federally recognized tribe with more than 44,000 members, relies heavily on casino revenue to fund community services. Gaming operations were suspended Sunday afternoon at the Manistique, Christmas and Hessel locations, followed by closures at Sault Ste. Marie and St. Ignace facilities Monday morning.
The attack has severely impacted the tribe's health division's ability to provide comprehensive medical services. The tribe has cancelled all scheduled appointments at the medical office for primary care services, radiology office and the Dental Department. While still accepting emergency walk-ins, patients must bring a list of all current non-prescribed medications and all prescription bottles. Lab services are currently limited.
While tribal government services remain open in a limited capacity, many operations have been forced to adapt. The Big Bear Arena is accepting only cash payments, and tribal law enforcement cannot process new inland hunting and fishing licenses. Elder services, including meal programs and transportation, remain fully operational.
Ransomware attacks involve malicious code that locks organizations out of their own systems and data. Attackers typically demand payment to restore access. Federal authorities have warned that these attacks pose significant risks to essential services nationwide.
The attack on the Sault Tribe follows a growing pattern of cyber threats targeting tribal governments and enterprises. Tribal casinos across the country have faced similar attacks, with security experts reporting in 2021 that such incidents were occurring almost weekly. Previous targets have included the Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes' Lucky Star Casinos in Oklahoma, the Nez Perce Tribe's gaming operations in Idaho, and the Cache Creek Casino operated by the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation in California, according to previous reporting by Tribal Business News.
Lowes said the tribe hopes to resolve the issue within a week but is prepared for a longer disruption. The tribe has enlisted third-party experts to help restore operations.
Lowes said the tribe hopes to resolve the issue within a week but is prepared for a longer disruption. The tribe has enlisted third-party experts to help restore operations. He acknowledged the significant impact on tribal members and employees, adding that due to the ongoing investigation, tribal leaders are limited in what details they can share publicly.
The attack's impact extends beyond gaming operations. Hotel check-ins at Kewadin properties have been suspended, though current guests are permitted to stay. Tribal stores are operating on a cash-only basis, and gas services are unavailable. Multiple tribal government meetings scheduled for this week have been canceled.
The tribe is providing updates through its various Facebook pages as the situation develops.
