AllYouCanTech

Cyberattack Affects 5.6 Million Patients, According to Health Care Provider Ascension

### The Ascension Cyberattack: A Crucial Reminder for Healthcare Cybersecurity

For a long time, the healthcare sector has been under siege by cybercriminals, and the recent ransomware assault on Ascension, one of the largest healthcare networks in the United States, has highlighted the severe ramifications of such incidents. This breach not only compromised private information of nearly 5.6 million people but also disrupted essential medical services, resulting in errors, delays, and even the rerouting of emergency services. This event serves as a significant alert regarding the weaknesses in healthcare cybersecurity and the pressing demand for stronger protections.

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#### **The Extent of the Breach**

Ascension, which manages 140 hospitals and several assisted living establishments, was targeted by a ransomware attack in May 2024. The incident compelled the organization to switch back to manual operations, resulting in widespread chaos. Laboratory results were delayed or lost, there was an uptick in medical mistakes, and ambulances had to be redirected to different hospitals, jeopardizing patient lives. Although Ascension succeeded in reinstating most services by mid-June, the repercussions of the breach continued to emerge.

In December, Ascension revealed the complete scale of the breach in correspondence with the Maine Attorney General. The stolen information encompassed an extensive array of sensitive data:

– **Medical Information:** Medical record identifiers, dates of service, types of lab examinations, and procedure codes.
– **Payment Information:** Credit card numbers and bank account details.
– **Insurance Information:** Medicaid/Medicare identifiers, policy numbers, and insurance claims.
– **Government Identification:** Social Security numbers, tax identification numbers, driver’s licenses, and passports.
– **Personal Information:** Names, birth dates, and physical addresses.

This extensive dataset poses a significant risk for identity theft, financial fraud, and even medical identity theft, where the stolen information could be exploited to fraudulently acquire medical services or prescriptions.

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#### **The Perpetrators and Their Methods**

The ransomware faction known as Black Basta is suspected to be responsible for this attack, although they have not publicly acknowledged it. This has sparked conjecture that Ascension may have paid a ransom to avoid the public disclosure of the stolen data. If this is accurate, it would reflect a concerning trend in which organizations discreetly pay ransoms to lessen reputational harm and avert further disruptions.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has classified this breach as the third-largest healthcare-related breach of 2024, emphasizing the growing prevalence and severity of cyber assaults on the healthcare industry.

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#### **The Aftermath**

In light of the breach, Ascension has started informing affected individuals and providing a range of protective measures, including:

– **Two Years of Credit and Fraud Monitoring:** To aid individuals in identifying and reacting to unauthorized activities.
– **$1 Million Insurance Reimbursement Policy:** To cover potential losses tied to identity theft.
– **Managed Identity Theft Recovery Services:** To support victims in reclaiming their identities and addressing fraudulent actions.

While these initiatives are praiseworthy, they fail to tackle the core issue: the healthcare sector’s susceptibility to cyber threats.

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#### **Wider Implications**

The Ascension breach is not a one-off event but part of a disturbing trend. Healthcare organizations are prime candidates for cybercriminal attacks due to the high worth of medical data on the dark web. Unlike credit card details, which can be instantly canceled, medical records contain permanent information like Social Security numbers and medical histories, making them an attractive target.

The repercussions of such breaches go beyond just financial harm. When hospitals are compelled to reroute ambulances, postpone lab results, or function without crucial systems, patient outcomes can deteriorate. In severe instances, lives can be endangered.

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#### **Key Takeaways and the Way Forward**

The Ascension breach brings to light several important lessons for the healthcare field:

1. **Prioritize Cybersecurity Investments:** Healthcare organizations need to dedicate more resources to cybersecurity, including advanced threat monitoring systems, frequent vulnerability evaluations, and staff education.

2. **Embrace Zero-Trust Models:** A zero-trust framework assumes threats can emerge both from within and beyond the organization, necessitating stringent identity verification for all users and devices.

3. **Create Solid Incident Response Plans:** Organizations need to establish comprehensive strategies to promptly address cyberattacks, limit disruptions, and restore services.

4. **Encourage Cross-Sector Collaboration:** Public and private entities must collaborate to exchange threat intelligence and formulate industry-wide cybersecurity standards.

5. **Strengthen Regulatory Supervision:** Governments should contemplate implementing stricter regulations and sanctions for organizations that inadequately protect sensitive data.

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#### **Final Thoughts**

The Ascension cyberattack serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in healthcare cybersecurity. As the industry continues to digitize, the threats from cyberattacks will expand. It is essential for healthcare organizations to view cybersecurity not solely as a technical challenge but as a vital aspect of patient care. The safety and trust of millions are at stake.

“Increase in Flu Cases in Louisiana While Limitations Are Imposed on Health Department’s Flu Vaccine Campaign”

### Flu Season Intensifies Across the U.S., with Louisiana at the Forefront

As flu season picks up steam throughout the United States, Louisiana has emerged as a primary hotspot, encountering an early and significant rise in influenza cases. The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that Louisiana’s flu activity has escalated to the “Very High” classification, positioning it at the vanguard of the national flu outbreak. This escalation occurs against the backdrop of a contentious policy alteration within the state, where the health department has reportedly been restricted from advocating for flu vaccinations.

#### Louisiana’s Flu Surge: An In-Depth Perspective

The CDC’s flu activity scale, which ranks states based on the proportion of doctor visits for influenza-like illnesses (ILIs), categorizes Louisiana at the top of three “Very High” tiers. Oregon is presently the only other state classified at this level. In contrast, other states exhibit a wide range of flu activity, with 13 jurisdictions, including New York City and Washington, D.C., classified as “High,” while others fluctuate from “Moderate” to “Minimal.”

This premature surge in Louisiana is particularly alarming due to the state’s recent policy changes. Reports from NPR, KFF Health News, and New Orleans Public Radio WWNO indicate that Louisiana has restricted its health department from advocating for flu shots, along with COVID-19 and mpox vaccines. This policy, which lacks formal documentation, represents a considerable shift from conventional public health protocols.

#### A Transformation in Vaccine Communication

In light of inquiries, Louisiana’s health department spokesperson Emma Herrock confirmed the shift in policy, explaining that the department has transitioned away from “one-size-fits-all paternalistic guidance” to stress that vaccination choices are individual decisions. The department’s statement emphasized that discussions regarding vaccines should happen between individuals and their healthcare providers.

While the department reassured that routine childhood immunizations are not impacted by the new policy, the alterations have already led to palpable changes. Regular vaccination events and clinics have reportedly been canceled, and social media updates from the department have steered clear of mentioning flu shots, instead concentrating on general preventive strategies such as handwashing and covering coughs.

#### National Flu Dynamics

Across the rest of the nation, flu activity is climbing but stays within the limits of a standard flu season. Nationally, 3.8% of doctor visits last week were attributed to ILIs, a figure consistent with the 2019–2020 flu season during this period. Historically, flu seasons peak when ILI-related visits hit 7% to 8%.

However, the flu’s effects are already being observed. Last week saw two pediatric flu fatalities reported, raising the season’s total to four. By comparison, the 2023–2024 flu season recorded 206 pediatric deaths, most occurring in early 2024.

#### The Larger Public Health Landscape

The flu surge coincides with a winter wave of COVID-19, which is also showing signs of heightened activity. While COVID-19 hospitalizations and fatalities remain low, they are on an upward trend. Wastewater surveillance data reflects a sharp rise in virus levels, with numerous areas reporting “moderate” levels of COVID-19.

The concurrent increase in flu and COVID-19 cases highlights the crucial role of vaccination as a vital public health measure. Nevertheless, Louisiana’s policy shift raises concerns about the possible ramifications of diminished vaccine promotion on public health outcomes, especially in a state already contending with elevated flu activity.

#### Conclusion: An Urgent Moment for Public Health

As flu season advances, Louisiana’s initial surge serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for proactive public health strategies. The state’s choice to limit vaccine promotion has ignited discussions regarding the government’s role in influencing public health decisions. While the remainder of the country prepares for a potentially challenging flu season, Louisiana’s experience may provide important insights into the implications of policy adjustments during a crucial period for disease prevention.

For individuals, the message is unequivocal: vaccination is a formidable tool for safeguarding against the flu and other respiratory illnesses. Engaging with healthcare providers and remaining aware of local health trends can aid in alleviating the risks associated with this flu season.

“$2,100 Mechanical Keyboard Boasts 800 Holes; NYC Skyscraper Aesthetic Captivates Attention”

### No, Four Figures Does Not Get You a Numpad: The Icebreaker Keyboard and the World of Luxury Peripherals

In the world of mechanical keyboards, aficionados are well-acquainted with indulging in premium switches, artisan keycaps, and bespoke builds. Nevertheless, the recently unveiled **Icebreaker keyboard** from Serene Industries elevates the idea of high-end peripherals to entirely new heights. Priced between $1,500 and $2,100, this keyboard serves as a statement piece that emphasizes aesthetics and exclusivity over usability. And, as indicated in the title, it doesn’t even offer a numpad.

Let’s explore what sets this keyboard apart—and why it carries such a staggering price tag.

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### The Icebreaker: An Architectural Design Inspiration

The Icebreaker keyboard is the creation of Denis Agarkov, the founder of Serene Industries. Its design is influenced by the renowned **Flatiron Building** in New York City. Famous for its triangular prism shape and steel-framework design, the Flatiron Building symbolizes architectural advancement. In the same vein, the Icebreaker keyboard echoes this wedge-shaped form, producing a striking profile that distinguishes it from standard rectangular keyboards.

Agarkov has described the keyboard as a fusion of imagination, innovation, and craftsmanship. Viewed from specific perspectives, the Icebreaker’s sharp wedge structure creates the impression of being as slim as a sheet of paper—a remarkable achievement made possible through careful engineering and the application of high-quality materials.

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### High-End Materials and Distinct Features

The Icebreaker’s body is made from a **solid block of CNC-machined 6061 aluminum alloy**, a material valued for its strength, weight, and visual appeal. In contrast to most aluminum keyboard enclosures, which typically consist of two fused sections, the Icebreaker’s unibody construction enhances its prestige and weight. With dimensions of 17.7×1.7×0.9 inches, it’s an imposing keyboard that resembles more of an artistic creation than a functional device.

#### Keycaps with Micro-Perforations
One of the remarkable attributes of the Icebreaker is its **aluminum keycaps**, available separately for $415. These keycaps boast around 800 micro-perforations per key, permitting LED illumination to filter through. The perforations, each merely 400 microns in size, cultivate a digital, cutting-edge look that is both distinctive and labor-intensive to manufacture. Nonetheless, these tiny openings prompt practical concerns regarding the accumulation of dust and debris over time.

#### Additional Features
– **Low-profile keycaps** combined with full-height mechanical switches, providing a unique typing experience.
– A **4,000 mAh battery** for wireless functionality, although the Bluetooth version supports only a single device connection—an unusual restriction for such a premium product.
– **Programmable rotary encoder dial**, a sought-after feature in high-end keyboards, customizable through the Via configurator.
– **Silicone dampener** built into the bottom lid, which also serves as non-slip feet.
– **Accessory mounting threads**, enabling users to attach professional accessories like monitor arms or even Picatinny rails.

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### What You Don’t Receive: A Numpad or Switches

Despite its lofty price, the Icebreaker does not come with a **numpad** or the mechanical switches required for operation. Customers will need to acquire switches separately, further elevating the already high expense. This omission highlights that the Icebreaker focuses more on aesthetics and exclusivity rather than functionality.

For perspective, other high-end keyboard brands like **Angry Miao** provide similarly priced items, frequently incorporating advanced features such as split designs or innovative materials. In contrast, the Icebreaker heavily relies on its artistic design and premium construction to validate its cost.

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### The Opulent World of Mechanical Keyboards

The Icebreaker transcends being merely a keyboard—it serves as a statement piece for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate artistry and exclusivity. Its pricing reflects the time, effort, and resources invested in its development, in addition to its status as a limited-production product. For most individuals, spending over $2,000 on a keyboard seems inconceivable, yet in the specialized arena of mechanical keyboards, such luxury is not uncommon.

Agarkov himself has recognized the difficulties in merging design with practicality. The Icebreaker’s substantial and hefty design, for instance, was a point of confusion for manufacturers. However, for those who admire the craftsmanship behind the keyboard, these quirks contribute to its appeal.

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### Is It Worth It?

For the typical user, the Icebreaker’s price is difficult to rationalize. After all, you could acquire numerous high-quality mechanical keyboards for the equivalent cost—or even a powerful desktop computer. However, for collectors and enthusiasts who regard keyboards as more than mere tools, the Icebreaker symbolizes the pinnacle of design and craftsmanship.

Ultimately, the Icebreaker stands as a testament to how