Microsoft gets serious: cybersecurity for hospitals
After making IT security a priority, Microsoft announces a cybersecurity program for US rural clinics.
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Microsoft once again wants to help out with its products in the healthcare sector and has announced a cybersecurity program (Cybersecurity Program for Rural Hospitals) aimed at hospitals that serve more than 60 million people in rural areas. Microsoft is cooperating with the White House, the American Hospital Association and the National Rural Health Association. The program is initially intended for the USA, where hospital employees can register for the program, and is probably one of Microsoft's latest efforts in the area of IT security.
"Cyberattacks on the US healthcare system have increased by 130 percent in 2023," comments Anne Neuber, Deputy National Security Advisor of the United States. This has forced hospitals to, among other things. "Rural hospitals are particularly hard hit because they are often the only source of care for the communities they serve," explains Neuberger.
In the event of a successful cyberattack that jeopardizes care, patients in rural areas cannot simply be transferred to another hospital in an emergency. At the same time, according to Microsoft, such hospitals only have limited resources available to prevent and remedy security risks. Rural hospitals are one of the main targets for cyberattacks, Microsoft quotes the National Rural Health Association.
At least one year of updates for Windows 10
Microsoft has therefore developed the cybersecurity program to provide "free and low-cost technology services for these hospitals, as well as free training and support". For larger hospitals in the country that already use Microsoft solutions, the company is making its security suite available free of charge for one year, Microsoft promises. In addition, there will be free security updates for Windows 10 for "at least one year". Cybersecurity assessments "by Microsoft and its trusted partners" are also included. Microsoft also cooperates with special higher education institutions (community colleges) for training.
Cybersecurity incidents at hospitals are increasingly jeopardizing care, as a recent incident in London shows, which has put London hospitals in an emergency.
(mack)