Cyber Attack Evolves To Pose New Threats

Group behind SolarWinds attack adjusts tactics, according to government advisories

By Dan Hounsell


The recent SolarWinds cyber attack that affected the California Department of State Hospitals among its victims offered healthcare IT managers a sobering reminder that attackers will continue to exploit gaps in cybersecurity, and the threat is evolving.

U.S. and U.K. cybersecurity-focused agencies warn that the Russian hacker group behind the historic SolarWinds intrusion that affected nine federal agencies keeps adjusting their tactics based on government advisories, according to NextGov.

A joint advisory by the U.K.’s National Cyber Security Centre, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the National Security Agency and the FBI specifically said Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) changed its behavior after the release of a July 2020 advisory on the group.

The hackers gain initial access using a variety of malware described in the advisory. They then use tools like Sliver, in addition to credential theft, to retain their presence. And they use painstaking measures to hide their activity.



May 17, 2021


Topic Area: Information Technology


Recent Posts

Code Compliance Isn't Enough for Healthcare Resilience

Intensifying climate risks are pushing hospitals to think beyond code requirements and toward long-term resilience.


Ribbon Cutting Marks First Phase Completion for New Montefiore Einstein Facility

The second phase is expected to be completed in the second half of 2027.


Brooks Rehabilitation Launches 3 New Major Construction Projects

All three Jacksonville projects will begin construction in 2026 with plans to be completed in 2027 and early 2028.


Joint Commission Standards: What Updates Matter Most?

The latest revisions are streamlined and aligned with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, but the facility manager’s learning curve is steep.


Swinerton Completes Construction at Atlanta's Grady Hospital

Projects mark Swinerton’s first partnership with Georgia’s largest hospital.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.