Human-operated ransomware attacks are an escalating threat to healthcare organizations. Unlike traditional ransomware attacks, these involve human adversaries who infiltrate networks, steal credentials, and patiently identify vulnerabilities over months before launching their attack. This page explores their tactics, why healthcare is a prime target, and strategies to defend against these sophisticated threats.
Protect your healthcare organization from human-operated ransomware by adopting robust data backup systems, conducting ongoing risk assessments, and training your staff on cybersecurity awareness. Build a culture of risk awareness and efficiency to safeguard patient data and ensure operational resilience.
These involve skilled adversaries who infiltrate systems, adapt to vulnerabilities, and use stolen credentials to move laterally within networks. Attackers often spend months probing defenses, leaving minimal traces, and waiting for the best opportunity to exploit weaknesses.
Healthcare organizations house valuable patient data, making them lucrative targets for attackers. The average cost of a healthcare data breach exceeds seven million dollars, much higher than other industries. Healthcare spends less on cybersecurity compared to sectors like finance, increasing their vulnerability.
Misconfigured VPNs and remote access connections. Use of default administrator accounts, common credentials, or service accounts by vendors. Lack of comprehensive and ongoing risk assessments for third-party technologies. Insufficient staff training and awareness of cybersecurity threats.
A robust data backup and recovery system, ensuring data can be restored quickly without paying a ransom. Regular testing and updating of backup systems to ensure functionality during a crisis. Awareness training for employees to recognize and respond to potential threats.
Conduct initial and ongoing risk assessments for all technologies and vendors, especially remote access tools. Train all staff on cybersecurity policies and awareness to minimize human errors. Automate risk management processes to assess and monitor vulnerabilities efficiently. Break down departmental silos to foster collaboration and improve visibility across teams.
Many healthcare employees lack sufficient cybersecurity training, increasing risks of accidental breaches. Training empowers staff to identify threats like phishing emails or suspicious activity, reducing vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity awareness helps create a culture of vigilance across the organization.