Running an escape room or immersive experience means juggling creativity, logistics, and tech – often all at once. But with that reliance on digital systems comes exposure to a set of risks that can be easy to overlook until something goes wrong: cyber and data risks.
These aren’t just problems for big corporations. In fact, smaller entertainment businesses can be more vulnerable, because they rely on interconnected tech and may not have the same cyber resilience or backup plans in place.
So, let’s explore what can go wrong, what the consequences can be, and what can be done to protect your business.
Online bookings and customer data
Every escape room or immersive experience relies on taking bookings – and that means handling personal data. Names, emails, phone numbers, sometimes even payment details all pass through your website or booking system.
If that data is stolen or leaked, it’s not just an IT issue – it’s a GDPR breach. That can lead to fines, reputational damage, and a loss of customer trust that’s difficult to rebuild.
Reliance on technology during the experience
Today’s attractions are powered by tech: control systems, puzzles triggered by sensors, in-game sound and lighting software, CCTV feeds, and more.
If those systems go down – whether due to a hack, ransomware, or simple system failure – you could face lost revenue from cancelled sessions, refund requests, and frustrated customers.
Even worse, if a cyber incident damages your tech permanently or locks you out of it, recovery could take days or weeks.
CCTV and player privacy
Most experiences use CCTV as part of the gameplay and to keep guests safe. But that video footage is personal data under GDPR. If it’s stored insecurely or shared without proper consent, you could be in breach of data protection law.
You should make sure your terms and conditions clearly explain why CCTV is used, how footage is stored, and how long it’s kept.
The social engineering trap
Not all cyberattacks rely on fancy hacking. Some rely on manipulating people.
For example, an employee might receive an email that looks like it’s from the business owner or booking platform asking to transfer funds, change supplier bank details, or “urgently” pay an invoice.
It’s easy to fall for – and when money leaves the account, it’s often gone for good. These types of social engineering attacks are increasingly common in small, customer-facing businesses.
The impact of a cyber incident can stretch far beyond the immediate IT fix. Common outcomes include:
These aren’t theoretical risks; they’ve already happened across leisure, hospitality, and entertainment businesses in the UK.
While you can’t eliminate cyber risk completely, there are practical ways to protect yourself:
Use secure booking systems
Choose platforms that encrypt customer data, use multi-factor authentication, and regularly update their security. Always ensure your own website has an active SSL certificate (that reassuring padlock icon in the browser bar).
Keep your software and devices updated
Many attacks exploit outdated systems. Schedule regular updates for game control software, CCTV systems, routers, and any connected devices.
Back up your systems
Regularly back up critical software, configuration files, and booking data to a secure, off-site location. That way, if something goes wrong, you can recover quickly.
Review your privacy policy and terms
Make sure your documents clearly explain how you collect, use, and protect personal data – especially regarding CCTV and booking information.
Train your team
Most cyber incidents start with a single click. Run short awareness sessions so your team knows how to spot suspicious emails or messages.
Consider Cyber Insurance
Even with strong prevention, no system is perfect. Cyber Insurance can help cover costs such as:
At No Spoilers, we work closely with leading insurers in this space, to help operators get tailored cover that fits their tech, size, and exposure.
Escape rooms and immersive experiences thrive on creativity and technology – the same ingredients that make them vulnerable to cyber risk.
Taking proactive steps to secure your systems and protect customer data isn’t just about compliance; it’s about safeguarding your brand and keeping your doors open.
Cyber risk is part of modern business – but with the right setup, training, and cover, it doesn’t have to be a threat to your story.
For expert advice, get in touch with our team on 0161 533 0411, email info@riskboxuk.com, or fill out our online form.
