Christie’s, one of the world’s leading auction houses, is facing a major setback just days before a highly anticipated auction featuring works by iconic artists such as Warhol and Basquiat. The auction house’s website was taken offline due to a “technology security issue,” leaving collectors and art advisers scrambling to access important information.
Edward Lewine, a spokesman for Christie’s, confirmed that the security issue had affected the company’s systems, including its website. Despite efforts to resolve the issue with the help of additional technology experts, the website remained inaccessible, redirecting visitors to a temporary page outside of its domain.
The incident highlights the growing threat of cyberattacks in the art world, with museums and organizations facing similar challenges in recent years. Cybercrime expert Chelsea Binns emphasized the importance of companies being transparent about potential security breaches, especially in an industry like the art market where discretion is key.
Art adviser Todd Levin expressed concern over the timing of the cyberattack, noting that potential buyers rely on the website to access catalogs and confirm their interests in high-value artworks. With millions of dollars at stake, the disruption could have significant implications for sellers and bidders alike.
As Christie’s works to address the security issue and restore its website, the art world is left on edge, underscoring the need for heightened cybersecurity measures in an industry where privacy and confidentiality are paramount.
