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The FBI is investigating a ransomware attack that has caused the shutdown of emergency rooms and primary care services in several states. California-based Prospect Medical Holdings, which operates hospitals in multiple states, took its systems offline to protect them and launched an investigation in partnership with cybersecurity specialists.

The Crozer-Chester Medical System (CCMS) in Springfield, Pennsylvania has resorted to using paper records as most of their computers went offline. The CCMS does not expect to have their systems back online until next week. Representatives from CCMS confirmed that it was indeed a ransomware attack. The Eastern Connecticut Health Network (ECHN) has also been affected, closing facilities such as diagnostics labs and elective surgery centers. The ECHN has announced on Twitter that it will be contacting patients affected by the attack.

The FBI is working closely with law enforcement partners and the victim entities to address the issues. They encourage anyone who may be affected to report the incident to ic3.gov or their local FBI field office.

Hospital cyberattacks have been a persistent cybersecurity problem in the US. Just last month, HCA Healthcare reported a breach that exposed the data of 11 million patients. In October, a ransomware attack targeted the computer systems of CommonSpirit medical facilities nationwide. These attacks have serious consequences, including delayed care and increased risk of harm to patients. Hospitals are often more likely to pay ransoms, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

In response to the growing cybersecurity threats, the US Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has introduced its FY2024-2026 Cybersecurity Plan. The plan aims to disrupt cyberattack campaigns, provide security guidance to organizations to strengthen their systems, and incentivize tech companies to prioritize secure-by-default products and transparent security practices.

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