News

Recent reporting has indicated an exponential increase in cybersecurity attacks against healthcare systems across the country, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In 2023, approximately 133 million people had their health data, such as Medicare beneficiary data, social security numbers, and medical records breached. As the agency tasked with keeping Americans’ personal health information safe, HHS must be equipped to combat the latest hacking strategies.

U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Angus King (I-ME), and colleagues introduced the Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act to require HHS to perform consistent evaluations of its cybersecurity systems and report their findings to Congress.

• “Since the pandemic, we have seen a rise in the number of cyberattacks against our healthcare systems. I am proud to introduce the bipartisan Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act. This legislation aims to reassure the American people by better safeguarding their sensitive information, ensuring peace of mind during these ever changing times.” – Senator Rubio

• “In recent years, several of Maine’s major healthcare providers have been the victims of cyberattacks. This threat to America’s critical infrastructure is real, and could literally mean the difference between life and death – we must take proactive steps to enhance the cybersecurity of our healthcare and public health sectors. The bipartisan Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act would help ensure that health institutions have the resources to keep patient data safe. As the number of threats continues to grow, consistent evaluations will prove to be a lifeline to the medical community treating our family and friends.” – Senator King

Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) are original cosponsors of this legislation. 

• “Too many North Carolinians have experienced data breaches by malicious hackers, which is especially concerning when it comes to sensitive health information. Americans shouldn’t have to worry about harmful cybersecurity attacks and this legislation ensures any personal health data stored by the Department of Health and Human Services is properly secured and protected from cybersecurity attacks.” – Senator Tillis