The era of the pandemic has unfortunately also become the era of cyber attack. Computer hackers are becoming more savvy and ruthless. They are taking advantage of the world’s preoccupation with Covid to infiltrate vulnerable systems, endangering the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data. 2020 saw a sharp increase in computer-based crime involving ransomware, and to date, there have been nearly 300 attacks in the United States with ransom demands as high as $25 million.
During this season in which the medical field is particularly engrossed in Covid-related activity, the FBI has stated that healthcare organizations are especially attractive targets for cybercriminals. EMS networks are extremely vulnerable and should take steps to ensure they are protected.
Reasons for EMS Target
Like most of the medical community during the pandemic, EMS networks have demonstrated vulnerability due to their focus on responding to the emergencies brought on by Covid. With the volume of patients that stretched personnel, the healthcare industry did not have the resources to devote to cybersecurity. The desperate state of EMS networksduring this time made them attractive targets. The sensitivity and value of the information that cybercriminals were able to gain possession of increased the likelihood that they would receive payment. In addition, the medical community has demonstrated a historic lack of investment in technology. When budget cuts are made, defense against computer crime has never been a top priority, leaving networks open to hackers.
Methods for EMS Breach
EMS networks are most commonly breached due to an employee who opens a phishing email. During the pandemic, these emails can be particularly tricky as email volume has increased and become cluttered with Covid-related information. Employees should be suspicious of emails that:
- mention suspicious activity or log-in attempts
- indicate an issue with an account or payment information
- ask for confirmation of personal information
- attach a fake invoice
- include a link for making a payment
- offer a prize or coupon for free products.
Tips for Improving Security
There is no indication that this rash of cybercrime will slow or cease. The medical community is particularly vulnerable because of its reliance on the data that is compromised. An inability to access patient health records can lead to loss of revenue due to postponed or canceled procedures, but, even more frightening, it can also lead to loss of life. As a result, many organizations have actually paid for the restoration of their stolen data, encouraging the criminals to continue. Medical organizations, including EMS networks, should take steps to ensure protection against future cyberattacks by
- backing up information
- creating an incident response plan
- implementing regular system patching
- obtaining insurance that protects against loss due to cybercrime
- training staff to recognize computer-related threats.
About Provident Insurance Programs
With roots dating back to 1902, Provident Insurance Programs is a program administrator that serves paid and volunteer firefighters in addition to emergency medical responders with numerous custom-tailored insurance programs. We’ve also extended our expertise and experience to offer benefit plans and coverages to participant groups as well as Transportation Benefits. We are committed to continuing to provide superior customer service, and would be happy to speak with you to provide further information. Give us a call today at (855) 201-8880 to speak with one of our representatives.