MSG uses Knicks championship rings as bait in phishing test, calls the lure 'an unfortunate mistake'

The New York Knicks found themselves in hot water late Thursday when it was reported that the organization did not give championship rings to its assistant coaches or other employees.

But the news took a turn when employees reportedly were given a phishing test email disguised as a chance to redeem their rings.

"Those who did click the link at the bottom of the message did not get to choose any jewelry; instead, they were forced to attend a mandatory cybersecurity class to help satisfy some of [owner James] Dolan’s growing cybersecurity concerns," The Athletic reported.

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The team confirmed on Friday that the email was indeed a cybersecurity test.

"The company had previously sent out an email to its corporate team as a simulation of a phishing attack designed to strengthen our security against hackers. MSG was recently hacked and extorted using an employee login and password obtained through a similar phishing attack," MSG said in a statement.

The company added that "[u]sing the rings as a lure to gain employees' attention was an unfortunate mistake" and said it would be giving "more than 275 championship rings and jewelry to players, coaches, employees and other members of the Knicks family, worth more than $3.7 million, in recognition of their contributions and celebrating this achievement."

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The Knicks hung their championship banner, their first since 1973, on Tuesday night in their season opener, and players received extravagant 22-carat rings that are estimated to be worth at least $100,000 each. Each ring has roughly 800 diamonds and a recreation of the world's most famous arena.

Coaches were reportedly told they would eventually receive rings but did not get them along with the players on Tuesday. Employees, however, were apparently told not to expect any.

That's when employees' hopes were raised when they got the phishing email about rings last month.

"(Employee name), this one is on the house. MSG is issuing a complimentary employee championship ring. The same jeweler, the same craftsmanship, personalized with your name. No cost to you. There are two designs to choose from: Championship Gold and Garden Classic. Reserve the one you want below," the email reportedly said.

The Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs in five games over the summer.