As hackers exploit the pandemic and attack hospitals systems, one tech company has offered its cybersecurity incident response support free.

As hackers seek to exploit Coronavirus-related panic, along with vulnerabilities created by an increase in remote working, there has been a significant increase in cyberattacks in the wake of COVID-19, according to a monthly threat report by NTT Ltd.

Recent attacks have included information-stealing malware built into a fake World Health Organization (WHO) information app, while phishing emails have offered in-demand items including face masks, hand sanitizer and coronavirus tests. High-profile attacks had also been launched against hospitals, the World Health Organization and a COVID-19 test center.

Hospitals in particular, have experienced a wave of threats, at the exact time that their finite resources are focused on saving lives and handling an overflow of patients. Ransomware has been the main threat, along with attempts to steal financial information and medical records of patients.

Matt Gyde, President and CEO, Security Division at NTT Ltd., said: “Unfortunately malicious actors are launching cyberattacks that attempt to exploit panic, security vulnerabilities (despite the fact) that our hospitals are already under huge pressure. Hospitals across the globe need help to be able to respond to threats quickly as they carry out their hugely important work in the fight against coronavirus.”

In response to the rise in attacks, NTT Ltd. will provide qualifying hospitals battling the COVID-19 with cybersecurity Incident Response support at no cost, if an incident occurs.

Beginning on World Health Day, Tuesday 7 April, for 60 days, hospitals across the UK and Ireland, Europe, North America, Australia and Singapore will be able to use the company’s cybersecurity Incident Response services. Following an assessment, the service will include remote deployment of NTT’s Incident Response tools and then measures focused on attack containment and remediation.

(Editor’s disclaimer: Interested readers should practice due diligence in studying and considering any promotion or business proposal resulting from any leads contained in our news reports.)

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