Strengthening Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Lessons & FAQ following the recent 2024 NHS Cyber Attack
Strengthening Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Lessons from the Recent NHS Cyber Attack
‘It will never happen to us.’
That, tragically, seems to be the cyber security approach of many public and private sector organisations. And, while the blame for the NHS blood scandal or the latest smishing frauds (both covered below) lies firmly with the criminals, individuals and organisations must take responsibility.
Because the difference between ‘it will never happen to us’ to ‘oh no, it’s just happened to us’ could be down to nothing more than a criminal’s gaze resting on your IT systems– and spotting an open door.
The recent cyber-attack on the NHS blood test provider Synnovis is a stark reminder of the critical importance of supplier due diligence in the healthcare sector. On 3 June, Synnovis fell victim to a ransomware attack by the group Qilin, leading to the theft and subsequent publication of nearly 400GB of sensitive data, including patient names, dates of birth, NHS numbers, and blood test details. This incident not only disrupted healthcare services but also exposed the vulnerabilities in the cybersecurity measures of third-party vendors.
Does this attack echo the infamous WannaCry cyber-attack on the NHS in 2017, which crippled healthcare services across the UK? Whereas WannaCry exploited vulnerabilities in outdated software, spreading rapidly and causing widespread disruption, the method of infection on this hack is yet to be ascertained. However, be assured that Threat actors will always target the weak links. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges the NHS faces in securing its digital infrastructure and the pressing need for robust cybersecurity measures.
From a supplier due diligence perspective, this breach underscores the necessity for rigorous assessment of security protocols when engaging with third-party providers. Healthcare organisations must ensure that their suppliers are not only compliant with industry standards but also equipped with robust cybersecurity defences to counteract such threats. Regular audits, risk assessments, and the implementation of stringent access controls are essential to safeguard sensitive patient data.
This incident also highlights the need for a proactive approach to cybersecurity, with continuous monitoring and updating of security measures to adapt to the evolving threat landscape. The NHS and other healthcare providers must work closely with suppliers to establish clear communication channels and incident response plans for timely and effective action in the event of a breach.
We have put together a frequently asked question (FAQ) section to help you to understand more about the NHS cyber-attack.
FAQ
What were the immediate effects of the ransomware attack on Synnovis?
The immediate effects included the theft and publication of nearly 400GB of sensitive data, disrupting healthcare services, and affecting over 1000 hospital and GP appointments and operations.
Which group is allegedly responsible for the ransomware attack on Synnovis, and what data did they publish?
The Qilin group, identified as a Russian-based cybercriminal organisation, is allegedly responsible for the attack. They published sensitive data including patient names, dates of birth, NHS numbers, and blood test details.
How severe was the impact of the Synnovis hack on NHS operations?
The impact was significant, affecting over 1000 hospital and GP appointments and operations, and disrupting healthcare services across London hospitals.
Is this the same as WannaCry?
No, this is a different attack. WannaCry occurred in 2017 and exploited vulnerabilities in outdated software, while the recent attack involved the Qilin group targeting Synnovis with ransomware. However, both attacks are serious cyber hacks that caused significant damage and disruption to NHS operations.
领英推荐
What are the impacts of cyber hacks on the NHS system?
Cyber hacks can disrupt healthcare services or associated business, they can delay medical procedures, compromise sensitive patient data, and erode public trust in the healthcare system. They also impose financial costs related to remediation and enhancing security measures.
What can the NHS do to reduce this risk?
The NHS can reduce risk by:
What does our Head of Security at Intersys have to say about it?
Jake Ives, Intersys’ Head of Security says, “This cyber attack highlights why implementing a zero-trust architecture and conducting thorough due diligence on your supply chain is important within an organisation. There are security products out there which can help ringfence access to sensitive data and systems, so that data stolen cannot be accessed easily. On the supply chain point, cyber attackers often go after the most vulnerable element, and if that element is a business within your supply network, it becomes their prime target. This is why it is important to conduct due diligence and threat intel on your supply chain’s IT estate and establish where you fit and where you could be at risk.”
About Us: Intersys.co.uk
At Intersys, we specialise in providing comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to the healthcare sector. Our expertise spans across various domains including risk assessments, security audits, and the implementation of advanced cybersecurity measures. We understand the challenges faced by organisations and we work diligently to ensure that our clients are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to protect their data and their systems.
Our services include:
We are committed to helping organisations to strengthen their cybersecurity posture and safeguard against emerging threats. Visit intersys.co.uk to learn more about our services and how we can help your organisation stay secure.
Secure your networks. Educate your people. Repeat!
?
?
?
Tim King