Hyatt Hotels Says Payment-processing Systems Breached By Malware

(RTTNews) - Hyatt Hotels Corp. (H) said Wednesday that it recently identified malicious software on computers used for processing payments at Hyatt-managed locations. The hotel chain has launched an investigation and engaged leading third-party cyber security experts as soon as it discovered the malware activity.

Chicago, Illinois-based Hyatt's investigation is ongoing and it will post updates on its website. Further, the company said it has taken steps to strengthen the security of its systems, and customers can feel confident using payment cards at Hyatt hotels worldwide.

However, the company urged customers to review payment card account statements closely and report any unauthorized charges to their card issuer immediately.

Hyatt's worldwide portfolio consists of 627 properties in 52 countries.

Hyatt Hotels becomes the latest hotel chain to report that hackers have attacked their computers. In November. Hyatt's rivals, Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. (HLT) and Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. (HOT) separately announced that their payment systems were targeted by hackers.

H closed Wednesday's trading at $49.36, up $1.42 or 2.96 percent on a volume of 343,555 shares.