Ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid. The HIPAA Security Rule requires covered entities (such as CHP providers) to implement security measures that can help prevent the introduction of malware, including ransomware. The Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights has recently issued preliminary guidance on the issue of ransomware attacks and preventive measures. They note that a recent U.S. government interagency report indicates that, on average, there have been 4,000 daily ransomware attacks since early 2016 (a 300% increase over the 1,000 daily ransomware attacks reported in 2015). Click here to visit the HHS website and learn more.