Threat Intelligence: The Proactive Defense Strategy
In today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, healthcare organizations face unprecedented challenges from sophisticated threat actors. Integrating threat intelligence into broader cybersecurity frameworks offers hospitals a critical advantage against cybercriminals, according to Jon Moore, Chief Risk Officer and SVP at Clearwater.
Moore, alongside Michael Gross, Cyber Intelligence Manager at Cleveland Clinic, will share insights on transforming intelligence into actionable defense strategies during their HIMSS25 session “Mastering Cyber Threat Intelligence to Protect Patient Safety” in Las Vegas.
“Attendees should leave with a deeper understanding of how cyber threat intelligence can be a proactive tool for safeguarding patient safety and protecting healthcare organizations from cyberattacks,” Moore emphasized.
The Growing Ransomware Crisis
The healthcare sector continues to battle an alarming surge in ransomware attacks, with over 180 incidents reported in 2024 alone, according to Forbes data. As cybercriminals continuously refine their attack methodologies, many healthcare providers struggle to maintain adequate defenses.
Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) implementation provides healthcare organizations with real-time insights into attacker tactics and techniques. This valuable intelligence enables security teams to identify and respond to potential threats before they develop into devastating breaches.
Building Multi-Layered Cyber Resilience
Moore stresses that effective cyber resilience in healthcare demands a comprehensive approach since no single solution can completely protect patient data and critical systems. Organizations must embrace continuous risk evaluation, threat adaptation strategies, and integrated defense mechanisms.
Key Strategic Components
Continuous Risk Assessment
Regular vulnerability evaluations prevent security blind spots that could otherwise leave organizations exposed to attacks. Proactive identification of weaknesses allows for timely remediation before exploitation.
Enhanced Incident Response
Implementing robust threat hunting practices helps security teams identify indicators of compromise early. Organizations should establish comprehensive monitoring systems for unusual activities coupled with well-coordinated response protocols for swift action when threats emerge.
Security Awareness Training
Moore identifies employee education as one of the most cost-effective risk reduction strategies available. As frontline defenders, properly trained staff who can recognize phishing attempts, social engineering tactics, and other common attack vectors significantly reduce successful breach probabilities.
“By combining these strategies—risk assessments, threat intelligence, incident response, and ongoing education—healthcare providers can build resilience, minimize disruptions, and ultimately protect both their systems and the patients who depend on them,” Moore concluded.
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