Skip to main content

Friday Five: Water Sector Attacks, a Bill Targeting Data Brokers, & More

by Robbie Araiza on Friday March 22, 2024

Contact Us
Free Demo
Chat

More warnings about attacks against U.S. critical infrastructure surfaced this past week, along with global and domestic AI roadmaps, a new bill to protect Americans' data privacy, and more. Catch up on it all in this week's Friday Five.

WHITE HOUSE, EPA WARN WATER SECTOR OF CYBERSECURITY THREATS BY CHRISTIAN VASQUEZ

The White House and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) alerted U.S. governors to rampant cyberattacks on water systems, urging increased resources for protection. In response to these attacks, the EPA scheduled a meeting this past Thursday with state officials with the goal of bolstering defenses and establishing a water sector cybersecurity task force. Notable threats include attacks by Volt Typhoon and the Cyber Av3ngers, emphasizing the necessity of basic cybersecurity measures. Although the EPA previously attempted stricter cybersecurity rules, legal challenges halted progress. Experts highlight the sector's underfunding and advocate for additional resources.

Read more

RANSOMWARE’S APPETITE FOR US HEALTHCARE SEES KNOWN ATTACKS DOUBLE IN A YEAR BY MARK STOCKLEY

In the wake of massive ransomware attacks that have halted billions in payments and jeopardized patient care, healthcare has undoubtedly become a prime target for cybercriminals, with ALPHV being just one of many groups exploiting vulnerabilities. In the past year alone, attacks on US healthcare have surged by 137%, with 36 different ransomware groups involved. The US healthcare sector, with its vast data holdings and financial stakes, is a lucrative target, akin to critical infrastructure. Comparisons are drawn to the swift response seen in previous attacks on critical infrastructure, suggesting a need for similar urgency and vigilance in protecting healthcare systems.

Read more

HOUSE ADVANCES BILL EMPOWERING FTC TO PUNISH DATA TRANSFERS TO FOREIGN RIVALS BY DAVID DIMOLFETTA

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Protecting Americans’ Data from Foreign Adversaries Act this past week, aiming to penalize data brokers who sell sensitive information to foreign adversaries like China. The bill, introduced in response to a recent executive order, grants the FTC authority to seek civil penalties of at least $50,000 for such actions. It covers data such as genetic info, biometrics, financial accounts, and health records. The measure, unanimously endorsed by both parties, now moves to the Senate. Lawmakers emphasize the need to safeguard national security and individual privacy, particularly for servicemembers, against exploitation by foreign entities.

Read more

WORLD’S FIRST GLOBAL AI RESOLUTION UNANIMOUSLY ADOPTED BY UNITED NATIONS BY BENJ EDWARDS

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously approved a landmark global resolution on AI, focusing on safeguarding personal data, enhancing privacy policies, and upholding human rights. Although nonbinding, it marks a significant step towards establishing international guidelines for AI ethics and sustainability, aiming to address concerns about AI's potential negative impacts on democracy, security, and employment. Despite anticipated resistance, successful negotiation resulted in a balanced agreement that promotes development while safeguarding human rights. This initiative joins other international efforts to shape AI development and regulation, including agreements like the Bletchley Declaration and forthcoming regulations in Europe.

Read more

Tags:  Critical Infrastructure Ransomware Data Privacy Artificial Intelligence

Recommended Resources

The Definitive Guide to Data Loss Prevention
The Definitive Guide to Data Loss Prevention

All the essential information you need about DLP in one eBook.

6 Cybersecurity Thought Leaders on Data Protection
6 Cybersecurity Thought Leaders on Data Protection

Expert views on the challenges of today & tomorrow.

Digital Guardian Technical Overview
Digital Guardian Technical Overview

The details on our platform architecture, how it works, and your deployment options.

Get the latest security insights
delivered to your inbox each week.