Minami Tamaki LLP is investigating Marriott’s recent announcement of a massive data breach involving its Starwood guest reservation database.  Marriott announced on November, 30, 2018, that this breach exposed the personal information of up to 500 million customers.

Marriott revealed that hackers were able to copy information in the Starwood guest reservation database that included passport numbers, credit card information, Starwood Preferred Guest (“SPG”) account information, travel details, and/or other personal information.

According to Marriott’s data breach website, the company received an alert from an internal security tool on September 8, 2018, regarding an attempt to access the Starwood guest reservation database.  Marriott launched an investigation in response to this attempt, and then learned that there had been unauthorized access to the Starwood network dating back to 2014.

Customers who booked and/or stayed at numerous Starwood properties may have been affected by the data breach. Starwood brands include: W Hotels, St. Regis, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, Westin Hotels & Resorts, Element Hotels, Aloft Hotels, The Luxury Collection, Tribute Portfolio, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, Four Points by Sheraton, Starwood timeshare properties, and Design Hotels that participate in the Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG) program.  Marriott International became the largest hotel chain in the world in 2016 after acquiring Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide in 2016.

Marriott announced that it has begun sending e-mails about the data breach to affected guests on a “rolling” basis. If you booked or stayed at a Starwood property and wish to discuss this matter, you may contact us at (415) 788-9000 or through our online form.  We look forward to the opportunity to speak with you.