A recent phishing campaign has been uncovered by Check Point Software, utilizing Google Calendar invites to trick users into revealing their credentials. Attackers have altered email headers to make their phishing attempts appear as legitimate calendar notifications from trustworthy sources. Initially using malicious .ics files, they have since adapted their strategy to include links to Google Drawings and Forms, complicating detection efforts. With over 500 million Google Calendar users, this campaign poses significant risks for financial fraud. The emails often mimic familiar notifications and direct victims to deceptive pages masquerading as cryptocurrency-related sites.

Phishing Alert: Cybercriminals Exploit Google Calendar Invites to Steal Credentials Dark Reading

Health systems are planning to significantly increase their adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) by 2025, focusing on operational and clinical improvements during their financial recovery. Erik Swanson from Kaufman Hall emphasizes that hospitals are taking a strategic approach to AI, prioritizing practical uses that enhance efficiency, particularly in revenue cycle management and predictive analytics. However, the industry remains cautious about integrating AI into clinical practices, mindful of the risks involved. While there is promise in applications like risk stratification and assisting in documentation, health systems are dedicated to ensuring thorough evaluation and human oversight of AI tools before their implementation in patient care.

Health Systems Set to Embrace AI for Enhanced Efficiency by 2025 Chief Healthcare Executive

In 2024, the healthcare sector faced a marked rise in cyberattacks and data breaches, exemplified by significant incidents like the ransomware attack on Change Healthcare, which disrupted payment processes affecting around 100 million Americans and triggered federal security investigations. Similarly, Ascension, a major nonprofit health system, experienced operational paralysis due to another ransomware attack, resulting in a $1.1 billion net loss. Cyber threats were not limited to large organizations; smaller healthcare facilities also suffered breaches. These events prompted calls for enhanced cybersecurity measures within the industry.

Healthcare Cyberattacks Surge in 2024, Exposing Industry Vulnerabilities Healthcare Dive

Health spending in the U.S. increased by 7.5% in 2023, totaling $4.9 trillion, as reported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This growth is notable compared to the 4.6% rise in 2022, primarily fueled by an 11.5% increase in private health insurance and an 8.1% rise in Medicare spending, while Medicaid growth slowed to 7.9%. A key driver was the rebound in traditional fee-for-service Medicare, which grew by 1.7%, alongside significant growth in Medicare Advantage plans, now comprising 52% of Medicare expenditures. This increase in spending contributed to a record high of 92.5% of insured individuals in the U.S. in 2023.

U.S. Health Spending Soars 7.5% to $4.9 Trillion in 2023 MedPage Today