If you thought 2024 would be the year cyber threats took a breather, think again. From hospital
systems locking up to massive leaks by security vendors themselves, it was a front-row seat to
“what not to do” in cybersecurity.

So grab your cold brew (and maybe an aspirin) because we’re about to relive some of the most
significant cybersecurity stumbles from US-based organizations — and what your business can
learn from them.

1. US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Breach

Sector: Government / Healthcare

What happened? In a significant breach, attackers exploited a third-party file transfer tool used
by HHS vendors — compromising sensitive health data.

Who was affected? Millions of individuals had their protected health info (PHI) exposed.
Lesson: Third-party risk is real — and needs just as much attention as internal systems.

2. Change Healthcare Ransomware Attack


Sector: Healthcare / Tech

What happened? One of the largest health IT firms in the US was hit with ransomware, halting
payment systems and data exchanges for weeks.

Who was affected? Healthcare providers, pharmacies, and payers nationwide — leading to
operational gridlock.

Lesson: Critical infrastructure needs layered protection — downtime costs more than just
money.


3. Microsoft & Midnight Blizzard


Sector: Tech / Cloud

What happened? Russian state-sponsored hackers (Midnight Blizzard) breached Microsoft
corporate email accounts, targeting senior leadership and cybersecurity teams.

Who was affected? While customer systems were not compromised, it revealed how even top-tier cloud providers can be infiltrated.

Lesson: Nation-state threats are rising. Supply chain and internal vigilance must evolve with
them.

4. LoanDepot Data Breach

Sector: Financial Services

What happened? A ransomware attack exposed the sensitive financial data of over 16 million
customers, prompting the mortgage giant to enter recovery mode.

Who was affected? Customers’ Social Security numbers, bank info, and personal data.

Lesson: Financial institutions are high-value targets — and must build zero-trust environments.


5. Ardent Health Services

Sector: Healthcare

What happened? A ransomware attack forced Ardent to take 30 hospitals offline across
multiple states, cancelling surgeries and rerouting patients.

Who was affected? Hospital operations, staff, and countless patients.

Lesson: Operational downtime in healthcare isn’t just costly — it’s dangerous.


6. Schneider Electric (US Operations)


Sector: Energy / Tech

What happened? US-based operations of Schneider Electric were part of a breach involving
project tracking systems and internal data.

Who was affected? Customers and employees in multiple regions, highlighting global risk
exposure.

Lesson: Internal systems need external-grade protections — no exceptions.


7. CISA’s AI Red Team Hack Simulation


Sector: Government / AI

What happened? Not a breach — but a revealing simulation. CISA’s red team hacked multiple
generative AI tools to demonstrate emerging vulnerabilities.

Who was affected? Major AI providers (undisclosed) participated, indicating that the technology is not as “secure by design” as initially hoped.

Lesson: AI security is the next frontier — and businesses must start preparing now.


5 Tips to Strengthen Your Cyber Defenses Today


These high-profile attacks weren’t just headlines — they were a stark reminder. Here’s how to
avoid joining the next breach roundup:

1. Vet your vendors – Third-party tools are often the weakest link.
2. Patch fast, patch right – Delayed updates = open doors.
3. Build a response plan – Don’t just detect — respond with speed.
4. Train your team – Humans are still the favourite target.
5. Adopt a zero-trust approach – Assume breach, segment access, and verify everything.

Excelien: Your Cyber Security Ally


At Excelien, we help businesses stay ahead of evolving threats — before the headlines. Our
cybersecurity advisory sessions are designed to identify your weak spots, provide guidance on
fixes, and support implementation with the right tools and partners.

Whether you’re handling sensitive healthcare data, managing cloud environments, or securing
remote workforces — we help plug the gaps before attackers find them.

Book your cyber health check with Excelien and take the first step toward resilience.