Introduction:
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, recently encountered a fresh wave of cyber threat. However, the institution’s robust cybersecurity systems successfully thwarted the attack, ensuring the safety of sensitive data and protecting critical operations. This incident marks the second cyber assault on AIIMS within a year, highlighting the escalating challenges faced by institutions in securing their digital infrastructure.
The Recent Attack:
On Tuesday, at 2:50 pm, AIIMS, New Delhi, detected a malware attack through its vigilant cyber-security systems. The institution promptly responded to the threat, neutralizing it effectively and preventing any unauthorized access or compromise of confidential information. AIIMS took to Twitter to announce the incident and reassure the public about the safeguarding measures in place.
AIIMS’ Cybersecurity Measures:
After an earlier cyber attack on AIIMS, an investigation by the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (Cert-In) revealed that the hospital’s IT networks had been compromised due to inadequate network segmentation. To address this vulnerability, AIIMS has implemented enhanced cybersecurity measures to fortify its digital infrastructure. The institution’s commitment to protecting critical applications and ensuring uninterrupted services remains a top priority.
Previous AIIM Cyber Attack:
AIIMS faced a significant disruption in services in November 2022 due to a cyber attack. During this incident, the medical institute’s servers went offline, impacting operations and necessitating the suspension of two analysts suspected of breaching cybersecurity protocols. An extensive investigation, involving Delhi Police, Cert-In, National Informatics Centre (NIC), and the National Investigation Agency (NIA), was launched to identify the perpetrators and mitigate future risks.
Identifying the Origins:
Investigations into the recent cyber attack revealed a possible link between the servers involved and China and Hong Kong. AIIMS promptly reported this finding to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and requested assistance from Interpol to gather more information. It is imperative for national and international agencies to collaborate in order to deter and respond effectively to such cyber threats.
Wider Targeting:
The attack on AIIMS is not an isolated incident. Premier institutions across the country have been targeted, indicating the gravity of the situation. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) also faced numerous hacking attempts, with hackers reportedly targeting their website around 6,000 times. While the attempts were unsuccessful, this underscores the urgent need for bolstering cybersecurity measures at all levels.
Conclusion:
The recent cyber attack on AIIMS, Delhi, serves as a stark reminder of the growing threats faced by institutions in the digital age. However, AIIMS’ proactive cybersecurity systems and prompt response demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding critical data and protecting public trust. The incident emphasizes the need for continuous investment in cybersecurity infrastructure and collaborative efforts between national and international agencies to combat cyber threats effectively. As institutions become increasingly reliant on digital systems, ensuring the resilience of cybersecurity measures must remain a top priority to safeguard critical operations and maintain public confidence.
