Cyberattacks don’t just cause long-term financial damage and reputational harm—they can disrupt your operations in real time, creating chaos for both organizations and the people who depend on them.
When cybercriminals target critical infrastructure, they aren’t just attacking a company. They’re impacting everyone connected to it, from employees to customers. Critical infrastructure refers to essential services like healthcare, communications, travel, and utilities—systems we need to maintain our modern, globally connected lives.
In this article, we’ll examine a recent real-world cyberattack, the widespread disruptions it caused, and the long-term ripple effects it left behind.
The Ransomware Attack on Change Healthcare
In February 2024, a ransomware attack crippled Change Healthcare, a major U.S.-based medical technology company that connects patients, providers, and insurers. Change Healthcare’s platforms handle critical healthcare functions, including billing and insurance claims, and serve 1 in 3 patients in the U.S. With a workforce of 15,000 employees, the attack had far-reaching consequences throughout the healthcare industry.
Widespread Disruptions
When Change Healthcare’s systems went offline, hospitals, pharmacies, and medical practices relying on its platforms were paralyzed. The inability to process insurance claims and manage billing led to delays in revenue and, more importantly, patient care. Healthcare providers couldn’t efficiently access patient records or process prescriptions.
For patients, the attack created frustrating roadblocks. Those who relied on affected systems faced postponed treatments and were unable to refill necessary prescriptions. Imagine needing critical medical care but finding yourself stuck in a backlog caused by a system failure.
The Domino Effect of Downtime
This attack wasn’t just an isolated incident. It’s a prime example of the broader risks posed by cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.
Operational Chaos
Think about how hectic a normal workday can be. Now, add the stress of a complete system outage. Employees often have to fall back on manual processes, which are slower and more error-prone. This can lead to missed deadlines, frustrated clients, and even more stress for overburdened teams.
Financial Fallout
Recovering from a cyberattack is expensive. In Change Healthcare’s case, the breach resulted in over $1.5 billion in direct costs, including ransom payments and recovery efforts. These financial strains can affect every level of the organization, from job security for employees to resources available for patient care.
Unfortunately, paying a ransom is rarely the solution. Fewer than half of companies that pay actually regain access to their data. Many attackers demand a second ransom, threatening to release stolen information—an extortion tactic known as “double extortion.”
Broader Implications
When critical infrastructure is targeted, the fallout doesn’t stop with the attacked organization. It cascades through entire industries, impacting everyone who relies on these systems. In healthcare, for example, downtime doesn’t just inconvenience—it can put lives at risk.
The Bigger Picture
The ransomware attack on Change Healthcare is a stark reminder of the risks we face in a world increasingly reliant on digital systems. Critical infrastructure—whether it’s healthcare, utilities, financial services, or transportation—is a tempting target for cybercriminals. The consequences of downtime are severe, affecting not just businesses but also the people who depend on these services daily.
Takeaways
- Be Proactive About Cybersecurity: Preventative measures, like regular system updates and robust employee training, are your best defense against breaches.
- Never Pay the Ransom: Paying often results in further extortion, with no guarantee of data recovery.
- Have a Contingency Plan: A solid incident response plan can minimize downtime and reduce the chaos caused by an attack.
The Change Healthcare attack underscores how critical it is to prioritize cybersecurity, not just for your organization’s sake but for everyone who depends on its services. Protecting critical infrastructure is no longer optional—it’s essential.
