A group of hackers claim to have stolen a script for next week's episode of Game of Thrones, along with other data. According to Entertainment Weekly, the online pirates have stolen 1.5 terabytes of information from HBO, which also includes details about shows like Ballers and Room 104.
The network has confirmed there was a security incident in a statement, which states: "We immediately began investigating the incident and are working with law enforcement and outside cybersecurity firms. Data protection is a top priority at HBO, and we take seriously our responsibility to protect the data we hold."
An email was sent by the hackers to several reporters, says EW, and that more information would be leaked soon: "Hi to all mankind. The greatest leak of cyber space era is happening. What's its name? Oh I forget to tell. Its HBO and Game of Thrones......!!!!!!
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Credit: HBO
"You are lucky to be the first pioneers to witness and download the leak. Enjoy it & spread the words. Whoever spreads well, we will have an interview with him. HBO is falling."
HBO chairman and CEO Richard Plepler is describing the hack as 'disruptive, unsettling, and disturbing' in a memo to all HBO staff. But he adds that security and technology teams will be working 'around the clock' to protect its assets.
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While the script is reportedly available to download online, there are no assumptions that the hackers got hold of actual episodes of shows such as Game of Thrones.
HBO has battled for seven seasons to ensure that details about its flagship programme aren't leaked, but four episodes of season five managed to make their way online along with images of lead character Jon Snow's death.
Credit: HBO
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It's not just this network in particular who is a victim; Netflix was breached earlier this year when hackers managed to leak the new season of Orange is the New Black.
The 1.5 terabytes stolen from HBO is a drop in the ocean compared to what Sony had to deal with in 2014. A group known as 'Guardians of Peace' took roughly 100 terabytes from the company and leaked some of the confidential data.
The Guardians of Peace also advised Sony not to premiere that year's comedy film The Interview, which was about a plot to assassinate the leader of North Korea. The group threatened to carry out terror attacks at cinemas who screened the movie, and as a result Sony cancelled the premiere and main release.
Other films belonging to Sony, which had not yet been released, were also leaked online. US security agencies believed the hack was sponsored by North Korea, although the hermit kingdom has denied any responsibility.
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Sources: Entertainment Weekly, BBC
Topics: HBO, Game of Thrones