Hackers Ramp Up Attacks Against Health Care Systems

Whether it was opportunity, strategy or sheer chutzpah, the suspected Russian hackers behind a massive cyber-attack revealed last month focused particular attention on technology companies, including cybersecurity firms entrusted to find malicious activity in their clients’ networks.

Four cybersecurity companies announced this week that they had been targeted as part of the attack, adding to a list of at least eight other tech companies that the hackers tried to breach. Many of the companies said they successfully blocked the attackers, but some others acknowledged that their networks were infiltrated.

The hackers may have focused on technology and cybersecurity companies simply because, after government agencies, they were the next best targets. For hackers, cybersecurity companies represent the gatekeepers guarding the computer networks they so desperately wish to exploit, said Allan Liska, senior security architect at cybersecurity analytics firm Recorded Future Inc.

Also, cybersecurity and technology companies often have remote access to customers’ computer networks, potentially giving hackers entry to their clients and partners. Such digital supply chain hacks are an efficient method to corral hundreds, if not thousands, of potential victims, Liska said.

“If you can compromise security infrastructure, you essentially have the keys to the kingdom and can run around undetected,” he said. “And we’re dealing with an advanced adversary who’s looking for this kind of access.”

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