Ransomware Attack Exposes Vulnerability of U.S. Health System

The article discusses a recent ransomware attack on Change Healthcare, a vital data-transmission company in the American health care system, and highlights the vulnerability of the U.S. health system to cyberattacks. It points out the lack of regulatory focus on defending against such attacks and draws parallels with the 2021 cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline. The article also highlights the potential consequences of private companies paying ransomware and the need for greater cybersecurity defenses in critical infrastructure.

• Change Healthcare, a crucial data-transmission company in the American health care system, was recently targeted by a ransomware attack, causing disruptions in medical records, payments, and insurance authorizations.
• The article draws attention to the vulnerability of the U.S. health system to cyberattacks and the lack of regulatory emphasis on defending against such threats.
• It compares the ransomware attack on Change Healthcare to the 2021 cyberattack on Colonial Pipeline, emphasizing the need for greater cybersecurity defenses in critical infrastructure.
• The article also discusses the potential consequences of private companies paying ransomware and the lack of redundancy requirements for transmission companies in the event of a cyberattack.