ACSC releases cybersecurity report for health sector

The ACSC has published the 2020 Health Sector Snapshot, which provides a high-level overview of the cybersecurity environment from 1 January to 31 December 2020. The report is designed to enhance awareness of key cybersecurity threats in the health sector and advise hospitals, research organisations and others on what they can do to protect themselves from cyber threats.

The report found that ransomware is currently the most significant cybercrime threat to the Australian health sector. Keeping software up to date, using multi-factor authentication, and having current backups stored offline are the best ways to protect organisations from a ransomware attack.

The ACSC assessed that COVID-19 fundamentally changed the cyber threat landscape for the health sector. The ACSC is working with healthcare organisations to improve their cyber defences, including those involved in COVID-19 vaccine research, manufacturing and distribution.

The ACSC has also released two practical guides on ransomware at the launch of its cybersecurity campaign. The guides urge all Australians to be alert to online threats and encourage businesses, organisations and households to be alert to cybercriminals adapting their scams to exploit the public’s interest for information on COVID-19, including vaccines.

Health sector organisations are also urged to apply to join the ACSC’s Partnership Program to receive threat alerts and advice to strengthen cyber defences.

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