Shiv Telegram Media Reports Theft of 6TB Change Healthcare Data by Ransomware Gang
2 min read
In a major cyberattack, the BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware gang has targeted Optum, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, affecting the Change Healthcare platform. Change Healthcare is a crucial payment exchange platform utilized by over 70,000 pharmacies in the U.S., while UHG is the world’s largest healthcare company by revenue.
The notorious BlackCat gang claims to have successfully stolen a massive 6TB of data from Change Healthcare’s network. This includes sensitive information such as source code and data from key partners like the U.S. military’s Tricare program and Medicare. The stolen data comprises medical records, insurance records, dental records, payment information, claims information, and personally identifiable information of patients.
As Optum races to restore affected systems, it is reassuring to note that UnitedHealthcare and UnitedHealth Group systems have remained unscathed by the cyberattack. BlackCat has vehemently denied exploiting any critical flaw to breach Change Healthcare’s network.
In response to the escalating threat, the FBI, CISA, and HHS have issued a warning, highlighting how BlackCat ransomware affiliates are intensifying their focus on organizations within the U.S. healthcare sector. To combat this, the FBI has pledged a significant sum of up to $15 million for valuable tips that could lead to the identification or location of BlackCat gang leaders and individuals behind the ransomware attacks.
Security experts urge healthcare organizations to remain vigilant and implement robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data and prevent falling prey to cybercriminals like the BlackCat/ALPHV ransomware gang.
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