An overwhelming majority of respondents to our latest poll agree that South Africa is ready to again host an annual Formula 1 Grand Prix:

• 69% of readers said the country is ready to welcome the return of the world’s biggest motorsport spectacle
• Just 22% said “No”
• The remainder of respondents are unsure.

Attracting an average of 350 000 spectators, Formula 1 race weekends can generate upwards of US$100 million in revenue for host countries. South Africa’s Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton Mackenzie are set to meet with the championship’s executives by year-end to discuss bringing the global event to the country.

Are cybersecurity threats rising?

Last week, FEDHASA flagged a rise in cybersecurity threats for the hospitality industry. With the hospitality industry relying heavily on technology to manage guest services and operations, cyberattacks could have devastating impacts on hotels.

We want to know whether you have experienced a rise in attempted cybersecurity attacks.

Our poll question this week is:

The hotel industry, which relies heavily on technology to manage guest services and operations, has become a prime target for cybercriminals. Phishing, when attackers pose as legitimate entities to trick individuals into divulging confidential information, has become the method of choice for hackers.

Steven Pieterse, CEO at IT and hotel technology specialist firm Metisware, warns: “In the wake of rising cyberattacks on the hospitality industry, hotel operators and property managers must be on high alert for a surge in phishing scams.”