New program aims to protect WI rural hospitals from cyberattacks
Seventy-four rural hospitals in Wisconsin are set to benefit from a new Microsoft program designed to enhance cybersecurity. The initiative comes as health care institutions grapple with a surge in cyberattacks, including a recent incident involving Ascension, one of the nation’s largest health care systems.The new program, launched in partnership with the White House, is designed to support hospitals serving over 60 million people in rural America, where these facilities are often the only source of care for miles. In 2023, the health care sector experienced a surge in cyberattacks, with ransomware attacks increasing by nearly 130%.The program will offer free and low-cost technology and services, including security assessments, staff training, and discounted software, to help these vulnerable hospitals strengthen their defenses.Beyond this program, Microsoft will work with community colleges on a cybersecurity skills initiative and partner with local organizations through the TechSpark program to drive technology and cybersecurity job creation. Additionally, the Microsoft Airband initiative aims to bring high-speed internet access to rural communities across America and build the digital infrastructure needed for internet adoption.
Seventy-four rural hospitals in Wisconsin are set to benefit from a new Microsoft program designed to enhance cybersecurity.
The initiative comes as health care institutions grapple with a surge in cyberattacks, including a recent incident involving Ascension, one of the nation’s largest health care systems.
The new program, launched in partnership with the White House, is designed to support hospitals serving over 60 million people in rural America, where these facilities are often the only source of care for miles.
In 2023, the health care sector experienced a surge in cyberattacks, with ransomware attacks increasing by nearly 130%.
The program will offer free and low-cost technology and services, including security assessments, staff training, and discounted software, to help these vulnerable hospitals strengthen their defenses.
Beyond this program, Microsoft will work with community colleges on a cybersecurity skills initiative and partner with local organizations through the TechSpark program to drive technology and cybersecurity job creation.
Additionally, the Microsoft Airband initiative aims to bring high-speed internet access to rural communities across America and build the digital infrastructure needed for internet adoption.
