Priya Patel
TLDR:
- A ransomware attack on Change Healthcare by the BlackCat cybercriminal gang has highlighted the need for increased cybersecurity measures in the healthcare industry
- Healthcare organizations need to prioritize cybersecurity as a patient safety issue and focus on proactive measures to prevent and respond to attacks
As the disruption caused by the cyberattack at Change Healthcare continues, cybersecurity experts emphasize the need for greater protocols and oversight in the industry. The attack, carried out by the BlackCat cybercriminal gang, has raised concerns about the security of healthcare data and technology. Ransomware attacks on healthcare organizations have doubled in the past five years, making it crucial for leaders to address these threats.
The Department of Health and Human Services has issued reports warning about the rise of cyberattacks in healthcare, with BlackCat being one of the primary hacking groups targeting the industry. The recent breach at Change Healthcare has shed light on the sophistication of cyber actors and their ability to target large organizations.
Experts advise healthcare companies to focus on cybersecurity as a key priority, viewing it as essential for patient safety. The Health Sector Coordinating Council’s Cybersecurity Working Group has released a strategic plan to address cybersecurity challenges in healthcare over the next five years. The goal is to elevate cybersecurity to a stable condition within the industry.
It is crucial for healthcare organizations to invest in secure-by-design technologies and prioritize cybersecurity alongside other key initiatives. The breach at Change Healthcare serves as a wake-up call for the industry to enhance security measures and prioritize patient safety in the face of increasing cyber threats.
