2019 Ransomware Update: 5 Stats Confirming One Of Healthcare’s Biggest Threats

Reports show that ransomware is on the rise — and healthcare organizations are one of the biggest targets. Is your clinic prepared to defend against the cyber threats circling your valuable patient information?

Here are five alarming ransomware statistics and facts that you need to know in 2019: 

1. The healthcare sector is targeted the most out of all industries, accounting for 46% of all ransomware attacks. (Source: Safety Detective)
2. Ransomware attacks are up by 195% since the fourth quarter of 2018. (Source: Health IT Security)
3. Every 14 seconds in 2019, a new organization will fall victim to ransomware. Every 11 seconds by 2021. (Source: Cyber Security Ventures)
4. Damages from ransomware infections are expected to rise to $11.5 billion this year. (Source: Cyber Security Ventures)
5. 92% of malware is still delivered by email, and nearly 60% of ransomware attacks occur through email as embedded links. (Source: Safety Detective)

Regulators are Cracking Down on Cybersecurity Preparedness

Cyber-attacks threaten the healthcare system. They impact access to care by shutting down clinics, passing on infection to connected clinics and organizations, and put patients at risk. As more healthcare organizations transition to digital operations, regulators are enforcing strict security and compliance standards to protect patient information.

With just one wrong click, attackers can infiltrate your network, access patient data, and set off a breach that must be reported. The aftermath of a data breach is long and painful. It can put you out of business, and at the very least will cause significant financial loss, reputational damage, and overwhelming stress. 

Defending Against Ransomware

Today's top security teams are struggling to keep pace with rapidly evolving cybercrime tactics. Healthcare data breaches are popping up in the news every week. It seems as though no organization is safe in our highly connected world.

In addition to enforcing compliant practices and using Brightsquid Secure-Mail in place of traditional email, stay one step ahead of the criminals with a expert privacy compliance support from the Brightsquid Privacy Team. To learn more about how we can help you strengthen your practice, visit https://brightsquid.com/pages/privacy-consulting.

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