United Health Centers Suffers Ransomware Attack

United Health Centers, a leading healthcare provider in the Piedmont Triad, has been targeted by the ransomware group Vicesociety. The attack was announced on the group's dark web leak site. United Health Centers operates in the Healthcare Services sector and has been impacted by the attack, leading to disruptions in their services.

Company Overview

United Health Centers is a healthcare provider that offers medical, dental, and behavioral health services in a patient-centered environment. They are committed to providing high-quality, affordable care to all patients, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. The organization is dedicated to building healthier communities by providing equitable care.

Industry Standout

United Health Centers stands out in the healthcare industry for its commitment to quality care and affordability. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most major insurance, and offer services without insurance for those in need.

Vulnerabilities

The healthcare sector is a prime target for ransomware attacks due to the sensitive nature of the data they handle. In 2023, health care organizations reported the most ransomware attacks of the 16 industries identified as critical U.S. infrastructure, with 249 reported attacks. The sector is attractive to attackers because operators tend to pay ransoms to keep critical services running, and the data they hold is valuable.

Impact of the Attack

The ransomware attack on United Health Centers has led to disruptions in their services, but the full impact of the attack is still being determined. The organization is working to restore their systems and notify individuals whose information may have been affected.

The ransomware attack on United Health Centers underscores the ongoing threat that cybercriminals pose to the healthcare sector. Organizations must remain vigilant and implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect against such attacks.

Sources

• United Health Centers: https://uhcenters.org
• New Ransomware Actor Threatens Change Healthcare: https://www.govtech.com/security/new-ransomware-actor-threatens-change-healthcare
• Health care was biggest victim of U.S. ransomware attacks last year - Axios: https://www.axios.com/2024/03/11/health-care-ransomware-attacks
• Cybersecurity Incident - Ardent Health: https://ardenthealth.com/cybersecurityincident
• Ransomware Attacks: Death Threats, Endangered Patients and Millions of Dollars in Damages: https://www.voanews.com/a/ransomware-attacks-death-threats-endangered-patients-and-millions-of-dollars-in-damages/7520952.html
• New ransomware group demands Change Healthcare ransom: https://www.malwarebytes.com/blog/threats/2024/04/new-ransomware-group-demands-change-healthcare-ransom