Ransomware Attack Shuts Down Sault Tribe Casinos, Disrupts Tribal Services in Michigan
A ransomware attack on the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, based in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, has forced the shutdown of Kewadin Casinos and disrupted government operations, health clinics, and fuel services across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The attack, which occurred on Sunday, February 9, 2025, crippled multiple computer and phone systems within the tribal administration. In response, all gaming operations at Kewadin Casinos were suspended starting at 7 a.m. Monday, February 10, and gas sales were halted at MidJim stations in Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, Marquette, and Munising. MidJim stores remain open for cash-only, in-store purchases with reduced hours.
Tribal Chairman Austin Lowes confirmed the ransomware attack in a statement released Monday evening, noting that while some essential services remain operational, many tribal offices, health clinics, and businesses have been forced to close or operate at limited capacity. The tribe has enlisted third-party cybersecurity experts to investigate and mitigate the breach, but officials warned that recovery could take up to a week or longer. Several community events, including the Manistique Fitness Center open house and a public meeting on transportation planning, have been postponed or canceled due to the attack. Tribal leaders have pledged to provide updates via official channels as more information becomes available.
The far-reaching impact of this incident has caused significant disruption to the tribe’s members and employees, affecting critical areas such as healthcare access, fuel availability, and gaming revenue - an important economic driver for the community. The shutdown of Kewadin Casinos and other tribal enterprises is expected to have financial implications, not only for the tribe but for the wider Upper Peninsula region. The extent of the attack highlights vulnerabilities in infrastructure and underscores the growing threat ransomware poses to tribal governments and their communities. We will continue to monitor this developing situation and provide updates as new information emerges.