The casino and gaming industry faces unique cybersecurity challenges. Organizations operate complex IT systems, process high volumes of financial transactions, and manage vast amounts of sensitive customer data. Effective security leadership is essential to protect both operational infrastructure and customer trust while enabling innovation in gaming experiences, online platforms, and international expansion. Here are six CISOs driving cybersecurity excellence in this high-stakes industry.
Michael Echols – Vice President of Global Cyber Security Strategy, Las Vegas Sands Corporation
Michael Echols brings 20 years of experience managing risk, governance, and compliance. He is known for aligning technical and business objectives, creating programs that harmonize departmental capabilities, and promoting effective communication across organizational levels. At Las Vegas Sands, Michael ensures robust cybersecurity across luxury resorts, gaming operations, and international properties, including Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and Macao resorts. He emphasizes pragmatic problem solving, leveraging IT to address cultural challenges, and building resilient security programs that support business goals while protecting high-value digital and operational assets.
Dan Lingenfelter – Chief Information Security Officer, Penn Entertainment
Dan Lingenfelter has over 25 years of experience in risk management, compliance, and policy development. At Penn Entertainment, he oversees security across 40 casinos, more than 20 hotels, and nearly 100 restaurants and retail outlets in the United States. Dan specializes in translating complex security requirements into practical policies and controls, ensuring compliance with industry standards while enabling business operations. He engages with vendors, executives, and boards to implement effective cybersecurity strategies and maintain cutting-edge protections as the gaming industry evolves.
David Jones – VP of Cyber Defense, Boyd Gaming
David Jones has more than 15 years of experience in cybersecurity leadership within technology-driven organizations. He has successfully developed strategies to respond to ransomware attacks, reduce incident response times, and support M&A activities. At Boyd Gaming, he implemented security measures that prevented potential losses of up to $50 million and transitioned the workforce to secure remote operations in just four days during the COVID-19 pandemic. David combines technical expertise with strategic planning to safeguard critical operations and enable organizational resilience.
Donald Assalone – Director of Global Cybersecurity, Mohegan
Donald Assalone leads Mohegan’s Global Cybersecurity team, standardizing security processes across domestic and international properties. With over 25 years in fintech and healthcare, he has deep expertise in risk and compliance management, building high-performing teams, and creating robust systems. Donald emphasizes collaboration across departments to implement cohesive security strategies, develop incident response capabilities, and protect sensitive operations and customer data. His leadership balances technical security excellence with business impact, ensuring the company can operate safely in a high-risk industry.
Brad Lin – VP Cybersecurity, Galaxy Entertainment Group
Brad Lin brings extensive international experience in cybersecurity, privacy, and third-party risk management. Previously a partner at Deloitte, he led APAC-wide initiatives, advised on AI, digital trust, and GRC frameworks, and ensured compliance with global regulations. Earlier roles at PwC, PMI, and EY included building GDPR compliance programs, risk governance, and cross-border privacy initiatives. At Galaxy Entertainment, Brad leverages his technical expertise and business acumen to strengthen organizational resilience, align cybersecurity with strategy, and ensure regulatory alignment across diverse operations.
Jeffrey “Scott” Dake – VP and Chief Information Security Officer, Station Casinos
Jeffrey “Scott” Dake is a cybersecurity leader with extensive experience in the gaming industry. His technical background in networking, cybersecurity, and systems management enables him to convert complex security challenges into actionable business risk strategies. At Station Casinos, Scott focuses on aligning security operations with organizational goals, protecting critical infrastructure, and mitigating operational and digital risks. His leadership ensures the company can innovate securely while safeguarding employees, customers, and assets in a highly regulated industry.
Conclusion
The casinos and gaming industry operates at the intersection of entertainment, finance, and global operations, making cybersecurity leadership critical. These CISOs exemplify the ability to safeguard complex networks, protect sensitive data, and enable growth while navigating evolving threats. Their work ensures operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and the safety of customers and employees. As gaming companies expand globally and adopt new technologies, these leaders are shaping secure, resilient, and innovative environments, setting the standard for cybersecurity in a high-stakes industry.