A former worker at Walt Disney World allegedly hacked servers after being fired, manipulating computer menus by changing prices, adding profanities, and altering notifications. This unauthorized activity included falsely declaring some items as safe for people with allergies, posing potential risks to customers.
The individual was arrested following an FBI investigation and is awaiting a formal indictment. The court-appointed attorney stated that the defendant plans to plead not guilty. The accused, who has a history of mental health issues, is currently not receiving counseling or treatment while in jail.
Disney, declining to comment on the case, detected the unauthorized changes before menus were distributed to restaurants. The alterations, particularly to allergen information, could have had severe consequences for customers with allergies.
As a result of the incident, Disney had to shut down its menu creation program for over a week, incurring costs of at least $150,000. An internal investigation identified the former employee, who was terminated as a menu production manager, as a potential suspect. The termination was described as contentious, and the individual had the necessary access and knowledge to carry out the attacks.
During a search of the suspect's residence, he denied any involvement in the hacking activities. The case remains under investigation, with the defendant set to appear for a bond hearing next week.
