This whole scenario began a week ago when a hackers group claimed to hack 1.5 TB data from HBO servers. The script and episodes of Game Of Thrones are a part of the stolen data. Not only scripts but legal papers, employment agreements and much more is reportedly stolen.
What is Game Of Thrones?
Game Of Thrones is a fantasy drama TV series, based on George R.R. Martin’s book series ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’. The series started airing in April 2011 and is currently in its seventh season. Game Of Thrones has been one of the highest critically acclaimed series recently. It has received 38 Primetime Emmy awards, 3 Hugo Awards, a Peabody award, and four Golden Globe nominations.
The extent of hacking
Now, this is the question worrying HBO. The hackers claim to have stolen 1.5TB volume of data from HBO servers. The hacks include leaked episodes and scripts of the currently airing Game Of Thrones Season 7. Also, hackers seem to have gotten their hands on official emails, financial and legal documents, employment contracts and even contact numbers of some of the star cast. The hackers also showed a screenshot with unreleased episodes of upcoming series like Insecure Season 2, Room 104, and Curb Your Enthusiasm Season 9.
Demands of the Hackers
The hackers primarily did not demand anything but just leaked an unaired episode of Game Of Thrones. But in the recent leaks, they have (covertly) asked for a ransom. In a scrolling-text video with the GoT theme song, the hackers have asked for the ransom. Not stating the amount directly, the hackers have stated that, “HBO spends 12 million for Market Research and 5 million for GOT7 advertisements. So consider us another budget for your advertisements!”. Further clarifying, the $7 million demand was made in bitcoin. The hackers claim that it took them 6 months to hack the HBO server so they are asking for 6 months salary. They’ve given a 3 days deadline to HBO for transferring the ransom.
HBO’s take on the hacking
In a statement to Wired, HBO spokesperson Jeff Cusson said, “We continue to work around the clock with outside cybersecurity firms and law enforcement to resolve the incident,” declining any comments on further demands of the hackers.
