GERMANY — Siemens Healthineers, a key player in healthcare technology, is confronting a potential data breach as the LockBit ransomware group alleges an attack on one of its subsidiaries.
The incident highlights the persistent threats faced by the healthcare sector as cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities.
The subsidiary in question is Varian, a radiation oncology treatments and software provider acquired by Siemens Healthineers two years ago.
LockBit has heightened concerns by adding data related to Varian on its leak site, prompting an ongoing investigation.
While Siemens Healthineers refrains from confirming data theft, the company acknowledges the claims made by LockBit.
A spokesperson emphasized the corporation’s commitment to cybersecurity, stating that comprehensive measures are in place to mitigate risks.
The incident has triggered the activation of an incident response protocol and the establishment of a dedicated taskforce consisting of internal and external experts to delve into the matter.
Recent wave of healthcare cyberattacks
LockBit’s alleged attack on Varian is part of a series of cybersecurity incidents targeting healthcare organizations in the U.S.
United Medical Centers, a healthcare facility situated on the U.S.-Mexico border, also fell victim to the group.
The facility encountered network disruptions and expressed efforts to restore normal operations promptly, ensuring that essential medical services remain available.
As LockBit gains notoriety, a recent report raises questions about the group’s operational prowess. The report reveals that LockBit’s leadership faced a period of inactivity before resurfacing.
Operational challenges, including backend infrastructure issues and bandwidth limitations, have hampered the group’s ability to publish stolen data from attacks.
This predicament puts pressure on victims to pay ransoms based on the group’s reputation rather than actual capability.
LockBit’s affiliates are reportedly defecting to rival ransomware organizations due to operational hitches.
The slowdown in expansion efforts and responsiveness to affiliates’ needs is contributing to the group’s decline.
A series of arrests, including the detainment of key individuals associated with LockBit, further adds to the hurdles faced by the ransomware group.
The apprehension of Ruslan Astamirov and Mikhail Vasiliev underscores the legal offensive against the group.
The narrative of LockBit’s exploits spans over a year, with a staggering tally of over 1,400 attacks worldwide.
The U.S. Department of Justice reveals ransom demands exceeding US$100 million, signifying the scale of the group’s illicit gains.
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