One careless click could cost Cooper University Health Care millions of dollars and interrupt care to our patients. In recent months, we have seen an increase in cybercriminals targeting U.S. health systems with ransomware attacks. These attacks can result in the shutdown of computer networks, stolen patient data, and disruption of health care services.
More than two weeks ago Scripps Health, a San Diego-based health system, was the victim of a cyberattack that took down their entire network. The health system had to divert trauma and stroke cases and it took 20 days to restore some computer systems.
Such an attack at Cooper could have devastating consequences for the residents of South Jersey who rely on our trauma center as well as all of our other patients.
Please be vigilant and alert in opening email and clicking on links. Every team member plays a vital role in preventing a similar attack at Cooper. Take these simple precautions:
- Slow down and think before you click on any link in an email.
- Do not click links or open attachments from unknown sources that could be a ransomware or phishing email.
- Never respond to emails that ask for your Cooper credentials.
- Report suspicious emails to spamalert@cooperhealth.edu or by using the spam buttons on your Outlook toolbar.
- Click here for additional information about the spam buttons.
- Contact the Help Desk immediately at 856.968.7166, if you believe you may have clicked a suspicious link (if working remotely, disconnect from remote.cooperhealth.edu).
For general questions related to cybersecurity, contact Cooper’s Information Assurance and Privacy Officer Phil Curran at 856.536.1317, curran-philip@cooperhealth.edu or privacyofficer@cooperhealth.edu.