Ransomware, Content, EMEA, Europe

Ransomware Attack: Hackers Hit European Private Hospital Operator

Cybercriminals have launched a ransomware attack against Fresenius, Europe's largest private hospital operator, according to Krebs on Security. The ransomware attack comes during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in which Fresenius dialysis products and services are in high demand.

Some Fresenius IT functions remain limited due to the cyberattack, a company spokesperson told Krebs on Security. In addition, Fresenius has informed relevant investigating authorities about the cyberattack and is working to resolve IT issues related to the incident.

Cybercriminals Launch Attacks During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Along with Fresenius, other organizations have experienced cyberattacks during the coronavirus pandemic, including:

  • U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS): Cybercriminals attacked HHS during its initial response to the coronavirus pandemic.
  • Finastra: Cybercriminals used ransomware to temporarily shut down Finastra's IT servers.
  • Illinois Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD): Cybercriminals launched a NetWalker ransomware attack that temporarily prevented CUPHD employees from accessing certain files.

    • Furthermore, cybercriminals are increasingly using email phishing attacks and other types of cyberattacks during the coronavirus pandemic.

    How to Guard Against Cyberattacks During the Coronavirus Pandemic

    There are several things that organizations can do to guard against cyberattacks throughout the pandemic, including:

    • Establish cybersecurity policies, guidelines and programs
    • Teach employees how to identify and respond to cyberattacks
    • Encrypt data and virtual private network (VPN) traffic
    • Apply regular security updates across all business devices
    • Require two-factor or multi-factor authentication on all business devices.

      • MSSPs also can help organizations combat cyberattacks during the coronavirus pandemic. Organizations can work with MSSPs to track current and emerging cyberattacks, as well as leverage MSSPs' cybersecurity expertise to identify ways to improve their security posture.

      An In-Depth Guide to Ransomware

      Get essential knowledge and practical strategies to protect your organization from ransomware attacks.
      Dan Kobialka

      Dan Kobialka is senior contributing editor, MSSP Alert and ChannelE2E. He covers IT security, IT service provider business strategies and partner programs. Dan holds a M.A. in Print and Multimedia Journalism from Emerson College and a B.A. in English from Bridgewater State University. In his free time, Dan enjoys jogging, traveling, playing sports, touring breweries and watching football.

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