Institutions at risk: Cybersecurity expert warns of ransomware vulnerability

Hospitals and schools are most vulnerable to ransomware attacks carried out by Russian cybercriminals, according to Ann Neuberger, a top National Security Council cybersecurity official. In response, US officials are strengthening cyber defenses at these institutions and turning to artificial intelligence (AI) tools to detect hacking attempts and locate the source of attacks. Neuberger also discussed actions taken by the Biden administration, such as equipping companies with cybersecurity practices and dismantling cyber infrastructure used by criminals. The administration has also formed a partnership with 56 countries and entities like Interpol to tackle cryptocurrency movements and money laundering. Neuberger advises all ransomware victims not to pay to retrieve their stolen data, as doing so only incentivizes future attacks. She emphasizes the importance of using AI-driven defense to stay ahead of AI-driven offense in cybersecurity. Neuberger’s comments come amidst news of a non-specific “serious national security threat” concerning Russian capabilities in space. She also discusses Russian cybercrime, including the knowledge of Russian intelligence services in these activities.