The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC) has published a security snapshot of key cyber threats in the health sector, advising hospitals, research organisations and others on how to protect themselves from cyber security threats.
In a statement, the Centre said its report provided a high-level overview of the cyber security environment from 1 January to 31 December 2020.
“COVID-19 has fundamentally changed the cyber threat landscape for the health sector,” the Centre said.
“The ACSC is working closely with healthcare organisations to lift their cyber defences, including those involved in the COVID-19 vaccine research, manufacturing and distribution.”
It said the report had assessed that ransomware was currently the most significant cyber-crime threat to the Australian health sector.
“Keeping software up to date, using multi-factor authentication, and having current back-ups stored offline are the best ways to protect you and your organisation from a ransomware attack,” it said.
“The ACSC released two practical guides on ransomware at the launch of its new cyber security campaign. Both urge all Australians to be alert to online threats and encourage businesses, organisations and households to access easy-to-follow cyber security advice on the cyber.gov.au website.”
It urged health sector organisations to apply to join its partnership program to receive threat alerts and advice to strengthen cyber defences.
The Centre’s 2020 Health Sector snapshot can be accessed at this PS News link.
