Protecting Hospitals from Ransomware

What is Ransomware? Ransomware is a type of malware that infects your computer network and other devices. Once infected, your data is locked and encrypted, making it unusable and inaccessible until a ransom payment is received.While there are many forms of cyber threats today, ransomware has become the preferred weapon of choice for cybercriminals. Ransomware packages have become readily available on the dark web as criminals continue to discover just how lucrative malicious attacks like data encryption can be.How Ransomware Threatens Healthcare Organizations
 
Today Ransomware gangs using double extortion attacks said to be inspired by the Maze hacking group have become more prevalent.Hackers are targeting hospitals and other healthcare providers with Maze ransomware and inspired copycat attacks. The FBI issued a warning in January 2020 and called for vigilance to combat Maze after a string of attacks hit businesses and organizations throughout the U.S and around the world.Ransomware attacks targeting the healthcare industry have grown substantially over the last few years.
 
In fact, the cost of ransomware attacks affecting healthcare in 2020 totaled $21 billion, according to a report from Comparitech, a significant increase from 2019.Cyberattacks targeting hospitals and other health care organizations continue to increase. These attacks pose a major threat to hospitals’ revenues and operations, putting the safety of patients at risk. Additionally, this puts even more pressure on hospitals due to the potential lawsuits that may follow.