Widespread Health Data Cyberattack Cripples U.S. Health System Operations, Puts Patients at Risk
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Change Healthcare, recently purchased by UnitedHealth, suffered a cyberattack that has crippled parts of the U.S. health system. The impact is widespread and growing.
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The attack is blamed on the notorious ransomware group ALPHV, though some dispute whether it's a nation-state attack. ALPHV has previously extracted hundreds of millions in ransom payments.
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As a result, some patients can't access medications, doctors can't get paid or check insurance coverage, medical records sharing has stopped, and more ripple effects are expected.
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Patients face risks including medical errors, identity theft from breached health data, and even potential increased mortality rates.
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Government response has been limited so far, though officials recognize the urgent need for improved health industry cybersecurity.