Knicks staff faced mandatory cybersecurity training after fake ring offer
The New York Knicks sent employees a fake offer of free championship rings as part of a phishing test, according to team sources cited in a report. Staff who clicked the link were required to attend a cybersecurity class, amid owner James Dolan’s growing concerns about security.
The late-September email showed two ring designs and said MSG would provide a personalised ring at no cost. The offer seemed plausible because NBA team employees often receive rings, though they may be less elaborate than players’ rings. The Knicks’ assistant coaches were told they would receive rings later after being given empty boxes at the team’s banner-raising ceremony; many MSG employees will not receive rings, and it is unclear how many clicked the test email.
In short
- Knicks employees received a fake free ring offer in a phishing test.
- Staff who clicked the link had to attend cybersecurity training.
- It is unknown how many clicked or whether any will get rings.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A realistic phishing test can help staff recognise deceptive messages and protect sensitive systems, especially when security is a growing concern. Requiring employees who clicked the link to attend training may turn the exercise into a practical lesson and reinforce that cybersecurity is part of everyone’s responsibility.
The case against
A test built around a plausible workplace perk may feel like a trap, particularly if employees are disciplined or singled out for responding. Critics could argue that training should focus on clear guidance and supportive learning, rather than consequences that risk undermining trust or discouraging staff from reporting mistakes.
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Originally published by Ars Technica as “Knicks sent employees fake offer of championship rings in phishing test: Report”.