Overview
- The hack was carried out by the ALPHV/BlackCat ransomware group, exploiting a lack of multi-factor authentication in UnitedHealth's systems.
- Compromised data includes health insurance details, medical records, Social Security numbers, and financial information.
- UnitedHealth paid a $22 million ransom for the decryption key, but the data's security remains uncertain as some was leaked online.
- The breach caused significant disruptions in healthcare services, affecting claims processing and prescription refills across the U.S.
- Lawmakers are calling for stricter cybersecurity measures and increased penalties for HIPAA violations following the breach.