In an alarming development, Ascension, one of the largest nonprofit healthcare systems in the United States, experienced a suspected cyberattack on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, disrupting clinical operations at its hospitals nationwide. As a leading cybersecurity firm, Scarlett Cyber Security was featured in a News4JAX article discussing the incident and providing expert insights into the situation.
For more information on this developing story, please read the full article on News4JAX: https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2024/05/09/ascension-hospitals-investigating-possible-data-breach-after-cyberattack-disrupts-clinical-operations/
Ascension detected unusual activity on select technology network systems, which it believes is due to a "cyber security event." The incident caused phone and computer access to be taken down at some healthcare facilities, forcing medical professionals to resort to taking patient notes by hand. The disruption affected clinical operations, and Ascension is currently assessing the impact and duration of the event.
Ascension's Response:
Upon detecting the suspicious activity, Ascension responded immediately and launched an investigation into the incident. As a precautionary measure, access to some systems has been interrupted while the investigation continues. Ascension has engaged a third-party expert to assist in the investigation and has alerted the relevant authorities.
Despite the disruption, Ascension has assured the public that their care teams are well-trained to handle such situations. They have initiated procedures to ensure that patient care delivery remains safe and minimally impacted.
Insights from Scarlett Cyber Security:
Tyler Chancey, the director of Scarlett Cyber Security, provided valuable insights into the incident. Speaking to News4JAX, Chancey stated, "Generally, if you see a third-party firm like this engaged, especially called out so early in the process, that would indicate some sort of high-level attack has occurred. It's going to be something pretty major."
Chancey further explained why healthcare providers are prime targets for ransomware attacks. Healthcare organizations possess valuable data and need to be online and functioning rapidly to ensure patient care. Disrupting healthcare systems creates a sense of urgency and motivates immediate response and action to restore critical medical systems.
Potential Data Breach:
Ascension is working diligently to investigate whether any information has been affected by the incident. They have pledged to notify and support individuals in accordance with all relevant regulatory and legal guidelines should they determine that any sensitive information was compromised.
The Broader Context:
Unfortunately, healthcare providers across the United States have fallen victim to numerous ransomware attacks in recent years. These attacks have not only disrupted patient care but have also cost healthcare providers millions, if not billions, of dollars.
Ascension's Reach:
Ascension is a vast health system comprising 140 hospitals and 40 senior living facilities across 19 states, including multiple locations in Northeast Florida. While local Ascension representatives did not mention any specific impacts in the area, news reports from the Milwaukee region indicate that some Ascension healthcare patients have been turned away, and appointments have been canceled at the affected hospitals.
Conclusion:
The suspected cyberattack on Ascension hospitals serves as a stark reminder of the growing threat that healthcare providers face in the digital age. As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, it is crucial for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity measures and have robust incident response plans in place. Scarlett Cyber Security remains committed to helping organizations prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats, ensuring the safety and security of critical systems and sensitive data.
At Scarlett Cyber Security, we understand the importance of staying vigilant and proactive in the face of evolving cyber threats. If you have any concerns about your organization's cybersecurity posture or would like to learn more about our services, please don't hesitate to reach out to our team of
