Microsoft Giving Cybersecurity Boost to Rural US Hospitals
In an era where digital threats loom large, rural hospitals in the US are finding themselves increasingly vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks. Recognising this critical issue, Microsoft has unveiled a new programme aimed at bolstering their defences.
The Microsoft Cybersecurity Program for Rural Hospitals comes at a crucial time. In 2023, the healthcare sector reported more ransomware attacks than any other critical infrastructure sector, with such incidents surging by nearly 130% in the US.
For rural communities, where hospitals are often the sole healthcare option for miles around, these attacks can be particularly devastating.
"Healthcare should be available no matter where you call home, and the rise in cyberattacks threatens the viability of rural hospitals and impact communities across the US," said Justin Spelhaug, Corporate VP of Microsoft Philanthropies.
Microsoft's offer
The programme offers a range of support, including significant discounts on security products optimised for smaller organisations – up to 75% off for independent Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals.
Some larger rural hospitals already using eligible Microsoft solutions will receive the company's most advanced security suite at no cost for one year.
This level of support is crucial, as smaller hospitals often lack the financial resources to implement robust cybersecurity measures.
Yet, the sensitive nature of medical data makes these institutions prime targets for cybercriminals.
Recent reports indicate that healthcare data can be up to nine times more valuable on the dark web than banking information, creating a perfect storm of low defences and high potential rewards for attackers.
Microsoft's initiative also includes free cybersecurity assessments, staff training, and extended Windows 10 security updates at no additional cost. These measures aim to address the unique challenges faced by rural healthcare providers, who often struggle to recruit and retain skilled IT security personnel.
The programme has garnered support from key stakeholders, including The White House, the American Hospital Association, and the National Rural Health Association.
Anne Neuberger, Deputy National Security Advisory for Cyber and Emerging Technologies, stated: “Rural hospitals are particularly hard hit as they are often the sole source of care for the communities they serve and lack trained cyber staff and modern cyber defences.”
She went on to link the Biden administration's cybersecurity as a important part in ensuring access to care for all Americans.
Rick Pollack, President and CEO of the American Hospital Association, emphasised the critical nature of the initiative: "Rural hospitals are often the primary source of healthcare in their communities, so keeping them open and safe from cyberattacks is critical."
The urgency of addressing cybersecurity in healthcare is underscored by recent high-profile incidents.
Healthcare: a hacker's delight
Only half way into 2024, we have seen some unprecedented attacks on healthcare.
Cybercriminals launched one of the worst-ever cyberattacks on a US healthcare system, hitting UnitedHealth Group's subsidiary Change Healthcare, extracting US$22m in ransom and leaking patient data online.
Months later across the pond, the UK experienced what was dubbed one of the most significant and harmful cyber attacks ever after a hack on a London hospital led to more than 1,000 operations and appointments being postponed and a critical incident being declared.
Microsoft's programme, however, represents a significant step forward in protecting rural healthcare providers.
With the amount of attacks increasing, the collaboration between technology companies, healthcare providers, and government agencies may become an essential part to safeguarding the digital frontlines of smaller, but equally attractive target of attack, healthcare providers.
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