Hackers are zoning in on hospitals as they lock computers and demand ransom, often in Bitcoin, according to Wired.
Here are eight insights:
1. Hospitals represent prime ransomware targets because of the information they possess. Within a hospital's computer system rests highly confidential and up-to-date information.
2. If hospitals can't access this critical patient information, providers can't offer quality patient care, which could result in lawsuits or serious complications. Therefore, a cyberattack often ends well for a hacker.
3. Further, most hospital employees do not have cybersecurity training. They focus on patient privacy, but don't know how to defend against a system-wide shutdown.
4. Ransomware involves cryptware, which encrypts files using a key that only the hacker knows.
5. Those hit with ransomware often unknowingly clicked an infected URL or visited a website with infected ads.
6. Sophisticated attacks also lock backup servers, so the affected have little choice but to pay the ransom.
7. If a hospital is attacked, experts recommend immediately disconnecting the infected system from a network and shutting off Wi-Fi. Those affected should also immediately remove external hardware to avoid further lockage.
8. Experts suggest hospitals send out sporadic simulated attacks to test employees on their responses. This pushes cybersecurity to the front of people's minds instead of afterthoughts.