Hackers target COVID-19 vaccine distribution supply chain

WASHINGTON — Cybersecurity experts are warning that hackers are trying to disrupt the supply chain for the COVID-19 vaccine, which is expected to get approval in the U.S. soon.

“We call it the vaccine ripple effect and it’s part of the overall cyberdemic that’s going to happen in 2021,” said Michael Bruemmer, the Vice President of Experian Data Breach Resolution and Consumer Protection.

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The Department of Homeland Security encouraged companies involved in the vaccine process to review the IBM X-Force report about the threat of cyber-attacks.

At least one major cold storage company has already said its networks were hit by hackers.

“We’ve already seen Russia, China and North Korea involved in trying to disrupt this cold chain distribution network which requires ultra-low temperatures and a secure system to be able to do it,” said Bruemmer.

There are also warnings about cyber-attacks on individuals including through contact tracing apps and the devices that store those apps.

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Bruemmer is urging people to make sure to use a secured Wi-Fi connection on the tablet or phone being used for the app and to take precautions to protect against the threat of identity theft from the stored data.

“Change your passwords regularly,” Bruemmer said. “In fact, don’t reuse your passwords. Secure your home device.”

Cox Media Group