Cyber attacks have become a far too regular segment of headlines around the world, highlighting how susceptible our technological infrastructure is. Understanding these attacks and their ramifications is essential to shore up our cyber defenses and protect what matters most to us. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 recent cyber attacks, each illustrating different facets of this evolving threat landscape, and what you can do if you’re asking the question, “Are we under cyber attack?”
What is a Cyber Attack?
Before we plunge into recent specific incidents, let’s first define what is a cyber attack and what constitutes a cyber attack. A cyber attack is any attempt to breach or harm a connected network or specific computer system. These attacks can vary widely and span worldwide. Some examples of cyber attacks include unauthorized access to data, disturbance of services, or the actual deployment of malicious software to compromise devices or networks. The goal of a cyber attack can range from financial gain and data theft to disruption and sabotage.
1. Change Healthcare Cyber Attack
In early 2024, the Change Healthcare cyber attack affected thousands of pharmacies and healthcare systems reliant on their services, leading to the compromise of sensitive patient data. The attack exploited vulnerabilities in the company’s software, affecting data integrity and patient privacy. This hack highlights the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures within the greater sector of healthcare where the stakes are exceptionally high.
2. MGM Cyber Attack
The MGM cyber attack suffered in late 2023 was a high-profile case of ransomware. Cybercriminals targeted the casino giant with ransomware that encrypted data and caused operations to cripple across MGM’s various properties. The attack led to significant disruptions, including issues with reservation systems and payment processing, which reportedly contributed to over $100 million in losses. MGM Resorts faced an array of challenges as they tried to recuperate from the attack and repair its services. This specific incident underlines the vulnerability of very large organizations to ransomware threats and shows the need for thorough incident response strategies.
3. Mr. Cooper Mortgage Cyber Attack
In mid-2024, the Mr. Cooper Mortgage cyber attack compromised more than 14 million sensitive customer data points. Mr. Cooper is a major mortgage servicing company based in the U.S. The breach exposed sensitive financial info, including mortgage components and personal details. The attack was attributed to an elaborate phishing scheme that tricked Mr. Cooper employees into revealing their login credentials. The Mr. Cooper incident exemplifies the risk brought on by social engineering attacks and the importance of employee training in identifying and reacting to such threats.
4. Fidelity National Financial Cyber Attack
The Fidelity National Financial cyber attack in 2024 targeted the company’s IT infrastructure, causing disturbances in its services and the disclosure of customer data. The hack highlights the susceptibilities that lie within the financial services sector and emphasizes the need for strict security by all. Regular assessments of companies' cyber postures must be done to protect sensitive financial and personal information.
5. Frontier Communications Cyber Attack
The Frontier Communications cyber attack in 2023 compromised the company's network and some of its customer’s data. The RansomHub extortion group caused the hack and exploited a vulnerability in Frontier’s network, which led to data breaches and service interruptions. This specific incident introduced worries about the security of telecoms infrastructure, underscoring the need for enriched security in a critical sector.
6. Ace Hardware Cyber Attack
The Ace Hardware cyber attack disrupted its retail operations for nearly a week. The attack involved a ransomware strain that encrypted the company’s internal systems, affecting its point-of-sale operations and its global supply chain management. Ultimately, The Ace Hardware cyber attack disrupted the retail giant’s capacity to process transactions and handle its inventory, showing the impact that a cyber attack can have in the retail sector.
7. Estes Express Lines Cyber Attack
The Estes Express Lines cyber attack that took place in 2023 compromised many of its operational systems. The ransomware breach disrupted the logistics and shipping giant’s operations, causing delays in a number of deliveries and affecting the company's ability to handle shipments. The Estes Express Lines cyber attack spotlighted the openness and vulnerability of the supply chain and logistics sector. Various types of cyber threats can affect the sector, emphasizing the need for robust measures to protect critical systems.
8. Lurie Hospital Cyber Attack
In early 2024, the Lurie Children’s Hospital cyber attack in Chicago was done by hackers to disrupt its complex healthcare services and ultimately nearly 800,000 people’s information was exposed in a data breach. The breach involved the unauthorized access and theft of patient data, affecting the hospital’s ability to provide medical care. This incident displayed the importance of next-generation cybersecurity in healthcare institutions, small or large, where the protection of patient information is paramount.
9. Henry Schein Cyber Attack
Henry Schein, a global provider of healthcare products and services, experienced a cyber attack in mid-2024. The Henry Schein cyber attack breach compromised private user data related to healthcare specialists and their practices. The attack caused major disruptions and raised strong concerns about the security of user data in the healthcare supply chain.
10. AT&T Cyber Attack
AT&T recently fell victim to a cyber attack that targeted its network infrastructure and exposed millions of customer data points on the dark web. The AT&T cyber attack breach led to great concerns about the fallout from the exposure of its customer’s data and disruptions to its telecommunications services. The AT&T cyber attack incident showcased the vulnerability of another major telecommunications providers, emphasizing the need for security measures and consistent attention to protect crucial communication networks.
Conclusion
The surge in high-profile cyber attacks in the past few years shows the growing sophistication of threat actors and cyber threats. From ransomware attacks to data breaches leaking millions of customer data points from sectors like healthcare and finance, the impact of these happenings is profound. Organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity efforts, continuously updating their defenses to counter evolving threats. Likewise, consumers must take action to educate themselves on these threats, learn about the effects they can have, and use next-generation cybersecurity products like RAV Endpoint Protection and the Online Security Platform to remain protected. As we continue to integrate technology into every aspect of our lives, strengthening our cybersecurity stance is a necessity and imperative for ensuring a safe and secure digital world.
