Federal Authorities Warn of Attacks on Healthcare Sector Firms Using ConnectWise’s ScreenConnect

Federal authorities have issued a warning regarding potential attacks on healthcare sector firms that utilize ConnectWise’s remote access tool, ScreenConnect. The Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center (HSCCC) recently released an alert urging pharmacies and other healthcare organizations to immediately assess their systems and networks for any indicators of compromise associated with ScreenConnect.

Background on ScreenConnect and Its Use in Healthcare Organizations

ScreenConnect, developed by ConnectWise, is a widely utilized remote access tool within the healthcare sector. Recently, there has been an incident involving ScreenConnect that has garnered significant attention. The incident revolves around Transaction Data Systems, a pharmacy supply chain and managed services firm, which recently merged with Outcomes. Outcomes provides services supporting over 48,000 community, chain, and grocery pharmacies.

Identified Attacks on Healthcare Organizations using ScreenConnect

Cybersecurity company Huntress has provided crucial insights into the incident involving ScreenConnect. Huntress reported that it has identified attacks on endpoints from two distinct healthcare organizations – a pharmaceutical firm and a medical care provider, both affiliated with Outcomes. Additionally, Huntress uncovered activities indicating network reconnaissance, suggesting that the attackers were preparing for further escalation of their attacks.

The role of unmanaged installations and outdated systems

On November 14, ConnectWise confirmed that the threat actors gained access through an unmanaged on-premises installation of ScreenConnect. It was discovered that the unmanaged installation had not been updated since 2019, leaving it vulnerable to exploitation. The incident highlights the critical importance of keeping software installations up to date to minimize the risk of compromise.

The challenge of attribution and awareness of attack methods

Despite ongoing investigations, Huntress has been unable to identify the hackers responsible for the attacks. However, the incident underscores the level of awareness that malicious groups possess when it comes to the tradecraft necessary to execute such attacks on a large scale. This demonstrates that there are organized entities that possess the knowledge and resources to effectively target healthcare organizations.

Defense Measures against ScreenConnect Exploits

In light of the ScreenConnect incident, organizations utilizing the software are strongly advised to take immediate steps to safeguard their infrastructure. The compromised endpoints in this scenario operated on an unmanaged instance of Windows Server 2019, which emphasizes the importance of proper management and security practices within an organization.

The Department of Health and Human Services warns that healthcare sector firms must remain vigilant and implement robust security measures to prevent exploitation. It advises organizations to ensure their software is regularly updated, and their systems are appropriately secured against potential compromises.

The recent warnings issued by federal authorities regarding potential attacks on healthcare sector firms using ConnectWise’s ScreenConnect highlight the ongoing threats faced by organizations within the healthcare industry. The incident involving Transaction Data Systems and Outcomes serves as a stark reminder that even the most robust systems can be vulnerable if not properly managed and updated.

As investigations continue, it is crucial for healthcare organizations to be proactive in their cybersecurity measures and to remain vigilant against potential attacks. By implementing stringent security protocols and staying abreast of the latest threats, healthcare sector firms can better protect themselves and the sensitive data they manage. Ongoing collaboration between government entities, cybersecurity firms, and healthcare organizations will play a crucial role in mitigating the risks and ensuring the resilience of the healthcare sector’s cybersecurity defenses.

Explore more

D365 Supply Chain Tackles Key Operational Challenges

Imagine a mid-sized manufacturer struggling to keep up with fluctuating demand, facing constant stockouts, and losing customer trust due to delayed deliveries, a scenario all too common in today’s volatile supply chain environment. Rising costs, fragmented data, and unexpected disruptions threaten operational stability, making it essential for businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMBs) and manufacturers, to find ways to

Cloud ERP vs. On-Premise ERP: A Comparative Analysis

Imagine a business at a critical juncture, where every decision about technology could make or break its ability to compete in a fast-paced market, and for many organizations, selecting the right Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system becomes that pivotal choice—a decision that impacts efficiency, scalability, and profitability. This comparison delves into two primary deployment models for ERP systems: Cloud ERP

Selecting the Best Shipping Solution for D365SCM Users

Imagine a bustling warehouse where every minute counts, and a single shipping delay ripples through the entire supply chain, frustrating customers and costing thousands in lost revenue. For businesses using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management (D365SCM), this scenario is all too real when the wrong shipping solution disrupts operations. Choosing the right tool to integrate with this powerful platform

How Is AI Reshaping the Future of Content Marketing?

Dive into the future of content marketing with Aisha Amaira, a MarTech expert whose passion for blending technology with marketing has made her a go-to voice in the industry. With deep expertise in CRM marketing technology and customer data platforms, Aisha has a unique perspective on how businesses can harness innovation to uncover critical customer insights. In this interview, we

Why Are Older Job Seekers Facing Record Ageism Complaints?

In an era where workforce diversity is often championed as a cornerstone of innovation, a troubling trend has emerged that threatens to undermine these ideals, particularly for those over 50 seeking employment. Recent data reveals a staggering surge in complaints about ageism, painting a stark picture of systemic bias in hiring practices across the U.S. This issue not only affects