The global cyberattack that targeted a number of federal agencies should serve as a wake-up call for the government, as the constant threat of cyberattacks for both the public and private sector is unlikely to decrease. According to an IBM report, a data breach could cost government agencies an average of $2.07 million per incident. It also stated that in 2018, cyberattacks cost the U.S. government $13.7 billion, Security Intelligence reports. The Russian-speaking ransomware group, reportedly responsible for the hack, exploited a vulnerability in a software application known as MOVEit, widely used by government agencies to transfer files. HHS is among the targets in the government hacking attack. Rex Booth, chief information security officer at tech company SailPoint, expressed concerns about the use of the software in the federal government and private companies, stating that it may contain sensitive information such as HR files and audit reports. The fact that the hackers targeted multiple agencies simultaneously is of great concern, according to experts. Ryan Lasmaili, CEO and co-founder of data encryption company Vaultree, emphasized the constant cyber threat faced by U.S. agencies and businesses worldwide, citing the recent attack by the CLoP group. The attack shares similarities with the SolarWinds incident, where Russian state-sponsored hackers breached the networks of federal agencies and private sector organizations. Emil Sayegh, president and CEO of data security firm Ntirety, highlighted the significance of the attack and its implications for national security, sensitive information, and essential services. Jason Blessing, a research fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, emphasized the need for interagency communication, cooperation, a quick response from the private sector, and imposing costs on perpetrators to protect government networks and critical infrastructure. Jen Easterly, Director of the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, stated that her agency is working with the FBI to understand the extent of the attack and support affected federal agencies. The FBI is conducting an investigation and urges organizations using MOVEit software to read their joint cybersecurity advisory with CISA. The Department of Energy and the Department of Health and Human Services were among the federal agencies impacted, with Energy receiving ransom requests. House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers and Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. called for measures to bolster the ability of industry-specific federal agencies to secure critical infrastructure. Cyrus Walker, founder and managing principal at cybersecurity firm Data Defenders, emphasized the need for coordinated countermeasures, real-time threat intelligence sharing, and effective leadership. Rex Booth emphasized the importance of securing the software supply chain through an inventory list of vendors, establishing relationships, and regularly testing the software. The FBI recommends using its Cybersecurity Advisory to report and learn about cyberattack risks.
Government Agencies Receive Major Wake-Up Call Following Massive Hack
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