Paris 2024 Olympics: 4 Billion Cyberattacks Expected

As Paris prepares to host one of the world’s biggest sporting events during the 2024 Olympic Games, a threat looms. Cyberattacks represent a major risk during this period, which will bring together several million people in the same locations.

Vincent Strubel, Director General of ANSSI, spoke at the InCyber Forum in Lille on Monday, March 27, stating that 4 billion cyberattacks were expected during the Olympic Games period.

The Virtual Dimension of Olympic Risk

The virtual dimension of Olympic risk refers to threats and challenges related to the digital and technological aspects of the Olympic Games. This includes cybersecurity risks, such as cyberattacks targeting Games management systems, online broadcasting platforms, and digital infrastructure used for ticketing and managing participant data. In this digital age, attack risks are no longer merely physical: they are also cyber threats, and their consequences can be all the more severe as they often target a large number of people or critical infrastructure. During this period, all eyes will be on Paris—and not only those of well-intentioned individuals. For scammers looking to have a large-scale impact, this is the perfect opportunity.

Cyberattack Scenarios to Fear

1. Sabotage of Critical Infrastructure: Essential technological facilities, such as power grids, transport systems, and communications networks, could be targeted by cyberattacks. Service disruptions could delay competitions or even endanger participant safety. The RATP network is under significant threat. If a cyberattack were to damage the network, the entire balance of the Olympic Games could collapse as events are delayed.
2. Hacking of Results Systems: Sporting results are the backbone of the Olympic Games. Cybercriminals could attempt to alter or manipulate official results, thereby undermining the integrity of competitions and creating confusion among athletes and fans.
3. Theft of Sensitive Data: The personal information of athletes, officials, and spectators is stored in vast databases to facilitate Games logistics. A breach involving this data could compromise individuals’ privacy and security, open the door to identity theft, and even jeopardize national security. Furthermore, 40,000 companies are partners of the Games, and not every one of them is protected as it should be. Leaks of critical documents have already occurred, even though the Olympics are still several months away.

Ticketing: A Major Challenge

The Prodiss National Union of Musical and Variety Entertainment conducted a study in 2017 showing that illicit sales affected up to one in four tickets. With 13.5 million tickets sold in total, ticketing is a huge target for hackers. The Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games is therefore preparing for this possibility and doing everything it can to ensure buyers do not fall victim to scams. Tickets will be personalised, digital-only, and made available through an official mobile application dedicated to these tickets. Ticket sales will be conducted via a draw, with a limit of 30 tickets per person, in order to prevent bots from purchasing tickets in bulk and reselling them. An official ticket resale platform has also been created to avoid fraudulent websites.

The Importance of Preparation and Protection

To address this growing threat, the organisers of the 2024 Olympic Games are taking proactive measures to strengthen their IT security. This includes identifying potential vulnerabilities, strengthening firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and raising user awareness about the importance of cybersecurity, including through phishing campaigns targeting police officers and partners involved in the Games.

As the world comes together to celebrate the Olympic spirit in Paris in 2024, it is crucial not to underestimate the threat of cyberattacks. By taking decisive, large-scale measures to secure digital infrastructure and protect sensitive data, organisers can help ensure the success and integrity of the Olympic Games. Training and awareness of cyberattack risks are essential. This is a current threat and a new form of attack that must be taken into account—and, above all, one against which people must know how to protect themselves.

To learn more about Vincent Strubel’s statements