Proactively Stop Cybercrime in its Tracks

By Diane Evans

A new warning from the Federal Bureau of Investigation describes cyber scams for what they are – and that is organized crime.

In a recent notification published on its website, the FBI called out a crime ring operating under the name of Silent Ransom Group (SRG), with various aliases such as Luna Moth and Chatty Spider.  

Sophisticated rings such as this succeed by finding IT vulnerabilities that allow them to raid databases for fraudulent purposes. They strike gold when they can mine Social Security numbers, health insurance and credit card information.  

Healthcare is a prime target, precisely because of the trove of sensitive information held within its databases. 

In its notice, the FBI points out red flags to watch out for, such as:

• Emails or voice messages from an unnamed source claiming data has been stolen;

• Emails regarding subscription services, requiring a phone call to remove pending charges;

• Employees receiving unsolicited phone calls from people claiming to be part of the organization’s IT department.

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Further, the FBI recommends “basic cyber hygiene” such as:

•  Robust passwords;

•  Multi-factor authentication;

•  Installation of antivirus tools;

•  Staff training on how to resist phishing attempts; 

•  Regular data backups;

•  Communication to how IT staff members will authenticate themselves within your organization.

  
  

The good news is that vigilance in cybersecurity can prevent intrusions, but it takes intentional effort and a security management plan. Leadership must set security priorities, assures the oversight of security efforts, and evaluates the effectiveness. 

Just as the crooks think up schemes, the defenders of databases must stay a step ahead. 

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