Delays impacting operations, including payments and insurance transactions

Earlier this month, one of the nation’s largest health care companies experienced a cybersecurity attack immobilizing much of the industry. Change Healthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group that also operates as Optum Solutions, states that it interacts with 1 in every 3 patient records. Their systems are integral in many areas of pharmacy operations, provider claim processing, billing and cost estimation services, patient eligibility verifications, and other clinical decision supports.

On February 21, 2024, Change Healthcare locked their systems in an attempt to limit the impact of the cybersecurity attack discovered that day. The ongoing disruption has created adverse impacts for providers and pharmacies, generating delays for consumers, limiting the ability to process payments and consumers’ insurance, and requiring complex workarounds or movement to new systems. It is believed that the attack was completed by a foreign hacking group. Federal entities are involved in the investigation.

“The implications of this cyberattack are wide-reaching and not yet fully known. We hope that raising awareness of this issue will encourage consumers to be patient with any delays in clinical and pharmacy activities. Please know that all parties are working as hard as they can to continue operations despite this issue. If you are in urgent need of medication, or will be soon, please get in touch with your local pharmacy before visiting. You may need to use a different pharmacy, or plan to pay in cash,” said Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro. “No timeline currently exists for resolution, and health care providers and pharmacies have been encouraged to remain disconnected from the impacted systems.”

Insurers have been in contact with the Delaware Department of Insurance about this issue and are in communication with contracted providers to inform them of available portals and processes. The Delaware Insurance Data Security Act has not yet been triggered, but all parties continue to watch the situation closely. Additionally, the department will be closely monitoring any potential prompt payment compliance issues that may arise as a result of this situation.

At this time, there is no indication that consumer data or insurer data has been impacted. However, consumers are still encouraged to engage in personal cybersecurity practices at an enhanced level. To protect from a cybersecurity attack, install anti-malware protection and use complex passwords that cannot be easily guessed. Do not click on suspicious links in emails or pop-ups, including those purporting to be from health care services, providers, insurers, and pharmacies. Residents might consider freezing their credit report to protect data.

View Change Healthcare’s Incident Page

CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack Registration Now Open
CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack offer free, fun game-like activities for high school and college students

Dover, Delaware — Delaware’s Governor John Carney and the Chief Information Officer (CIO) Gregory Lane today announced that high school and college students can register for the CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack programs. These national programs, sponsored by the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation and the SANS Institute, provide participants with the opportunity to explore their potential cybersecurity talent and assist Delaware students with gaining problem-solving skills that enhance knowledge post-graduation. The programs are split by high school student levels grades nine through twelve and college student level, and any participant has the chance to win scholarship prizes as well as statewide recognition.

“All Delawareans need to understand the potential of cybersecurity both for their professional and personal development. Whether cybersecurity is a potential career pathway or learning about self-protection against cyber criminals, it’s on all of us to learn more to keep Delaware secure,” said Governor Carney. “The CyberStart and Cyber FastTrack programs allow high school and college students to learn more about cybersecurity and how it affects all career paths. I encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity.”

“With cyber-attacks happening every day to well-secured, high-profile organizations, the need for this next generation to fill the skills gap in cybersecurity is essential. These major breaches not only affect the organizations directly attacked, but typically have far-reaching impacts. We must continue to be vigilant, and we need the next generation of cyber defenders to protect against sophisticated bad actors. With programs like these, participants can develop the cyber skills that will serve them well in any career field,” said CIO Gregory Lane.

The CyberStart and Cyber FastTrack programs both offer a series of online challenges that allow participants to act as cyber protection agents to solve cybersecurity-related puzzles and explore related topics such as code-breaking, programming, networking, and digital forensics. For the high school level, the program can be assigned as part of homework, form the basis of an extracurricular club, or students can simply try it on their own. Participating students and their teachers do not need knowledge or experience in information technology or cybersecurity to take part. Everything they need can be learned in the game; however, support and communication about the program to students are needed. Both programs are free for schools and students.

Students who do well in the program can earn access to scholarships and advanced training. During the previous competition, Delaware had 261 high school student participants with 6 award winners in CyberStart America and 76 college students with five award winners in Cyber FastTrack. To see more about this program and last year’s winner, visit Delaware’s CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack webpage.

To learn more about CyberStart America or to register, visit cyberstartamerica.org. College students can view the program details and register to participate at cyber-fasttrack.org.

###

About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information

The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions. DTI.delaware.gov

About CyberStart America

CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack are free national programs for high school and college-level students, aiming to uncover hidden cyber talents, and to identify and develop the next generation of cyber superstars. The immersive gamified learning platforms can take students from zero cybersecurity knowledge to possessing the skills necessary to compete in a national level Capture the Flag challenge in a matter of weeks. Students new to the field with a strong aptitude, as well as students with existing interest in the field, can use the platform to train and qualify for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition, allowing them to compete for life-changing college scholarship opportunities.

About The National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF)

The National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF) is a national nonprofit whose mission is to identify, nurture and empower the next generation of cybersecurity experts and eliminate the cybersecurity skills gap in the United States. NCSF aims to support the entry of thousands of highly talented students to the cybersecurity industry by providing enrichment opportunities, world-class training, and scholarships to fund advanced skills training.

Media Contact:
Christina Dirksen, Strategic Communications Manager, DTI
(302) 739-9736 w Christina.Dirksen@state.de.us 

CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack offer free, fun games for high school and college students to discover their talent and enter the field of cybersecurity. Registration is open now.

Dover, Delaware — Today, Delaware’s Governor John Carney and Chief Information Officer (CIO) Jason Clarke announced that high school and college students across the First State can now register for CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack — innovative, online cybersecurity talent searches and competitions sponsored by the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation and the SANS Institute. Building on the success of last year’s National Cyber Scholarship Competition and the previous Girls Go CyberStart program, CyberStart America is open to all high school students to explore their aptitude for cybersecurity and computer science. Delaware students in grades nine through twelve will have the chance to win prizes and recognition for their schools, as well as scholarships for advanced training for themselves.  Cyber FastTrack is available for college students, where they too have a chance to win accolades and scholarship awards.

“Cybersecurity is a critical issue facing every state across the country and the future of our innovation economy depends on having a skilled pipeline of cybersecurity talent available,” said Governor John Carney. “Careers in cybersecurity are open across nearly every industry and we want to encourage high school and college students to explore these occupations. The CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack programs give students the chance to discover skills and career paths that can ultimately lead them to success within the cybersecurity field.”

The CyberStart and Cyber FastTrack programs both offer a series of online challenges that allow participants to act as cyber protection agents solving cybersecurity-related puzzles and explore related topics such as code-breaking, programming, networking, and digital forensics. For the high school level, the program can be assigned as part of homework, form the basis of an extracurricular club, or students can simply try it on their own. Participating students and their teachers do not need knowledge or experience in information technology or cybersecurity to take part. Everything they need can be learned in the game; however, support and communication about the program to students are needed. Both programs are free for schools and students.

Students who do well in the program can earn access to scholarships and advanced training. Last year, 416 Delaware students participated in CyberStart America — four of whom earned scholarships — while two Cyber FastTrack winners won over $12,000 in training and scholarship awards.

“It’s estimated that there are more than 20 billion devices connected to the Internet and that number is only going to increase exponentially. This past year has proven how ingrained technology is in our personal and professional lives — as well as how imperative it is that we protect all the systems that connect us. Cybercriminals are evolving and becoming more sophisticated, so we must continue to seek out and cultivate the next generation of experts who will defend Delaware and the nation against these cyber threats,” said CIO Jason Clarke.

“Thank you to Governor Carney for his leadership in training the next generation of Cyber Stars,” said Alan Paller, President, National Cyber Scholarship Foundation. “Delaware is paving the way in urgently addressing the country’s significant gap in our cyber talent pipeline. We look forward to partnering with the Governor’s office to recruit thousands of Delaware’s students to this effort.”

To learn more about CyberStart America or to register, visit cyberstartamerica.org. College students can view the program details and register to participate at cyber-fasttrack.org.

###

About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information
The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions. DTI.delaware.gov

About CyberStart America
CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack are free national programs for high school and college-level students, aiming to uncover hidden cyber talents and to identify and develop the next generation of cyber superstars. The immersive gamified learning platforms can take students from zero cybersecurity knowledge to possessing the skills necessary to compete in a national-level Capture the Flag challenge in a matter of weeks. Students new to the field with a strong aptitude, as well as students with existing interest in the field, can use the platform to train and qualify for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition, allowing them to compete for life-changing college scholarship opportunities.

About The National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF)
The National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF) is a national nonprofit whose mission is to identify, nurture and empower the next generation of cybersecurity experts and eliminate the cybersecurity skills gap in the United States. NCSF aims to support the entry of thousands of highly talented students to the cybersecurity industry by providing enrichment opportunities, world-class training, and scholarships to fund advanced skills training.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 29, 2021

Media Contact:
Christina Dirksen, Strategic Communications Manager, DTI
(302) 739-9736
Christina.Dirksen@state.de.us

October Is Delaware Cyber Security Awareness Month
Register for Secure Delaware 2021

 Dover, Del. — Governor John Carney has declared October Delaware Cyber Security Awareness Month. Technology increasingly plays a part in almost everything we do. Connected devices have been woven into society as an integral part of how people communicate and access services essential to their well-being. Despite these great advances in technology and the conveniences this provides, recent events have shown us how quickly everything can be disrupted when cybercriminals and adversaries use technology to do harm. Cyber Security Awareness Month aims to shed light on these security vulnerabilities while offering actionable guidance surrounding behaviors anyone can take to protect themselves and their organizations. Throughout October, all Delaware residents and businesses are encouraged to participate in the various events being offered throughout the State: including presentations, educational workshops for seniors, on-site expert events, and conferences. As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month, the Delaware Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is also hosting our 12^th Annual Secure Delaware workshop to provide superior training for our citizens, businesses, students, and government employees. This free, hybrid in-person and online event will be held Thursday, October 28 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.

“Delaware must provide opportunities for all individuals to learn how they can protect themselves while online to help our state remain secure,” said Governor John Carney. “Cyber Security Awareness Month events, such as Secure Delaware, help us learn the steps we need to take to stay safe online. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the free educational events available.”

“Cyber experts have warned that during the COVID-19 pandemic cybercrime was up 600% and email is the primary entry point for the vast majority,” said State of Delaware CIO Jason Clarke. “Advancements in technology mean that we are more connected now than ever, but cybercriminals are more sophisticated as well. That is why it is critical for each of us to stay vigilant and to be our own first line of defense by learning what we can do to keep our information secure. This year’s Cyber Security Awareness Month theme focuses on ‘Who’s Tracking You?’ to highlight potential pitfalls of location services and settings. You can learn more about this and other cyber best practices at any of the events and workshops, including Secure Delaware, planned throughout October.”

The 2021 Secure Delaware Cyber Workshop is an opportunity to come together for an informative full-day session.  During this hybrid event, industry experts on cyber security will present information to in-person attendees and online. The conference will include three keynote speakers along with twelve unique cyber topics for the smaller group breakout sessions. Topics include cyber insurance, risk management, securing a remote workforce, legal and privacy implications, securing cloud environments, insider threats, and more. In-person opportunities will be available to network and collaborate across all lines of government, business, and citizens, with the goal of strengthening our readiness and response posture. Those that choose to attend virtually will have access to view presentations and schedule future conversations with industry leaders. The event is a partnership made available by the Delaware Department of Technology and Information, Delaware League of Local Governments, Delaware Small Business Development Center, JP Morgan Chase, and the University of Delaware.

To learn more about Secure Delaware 2021, and to register to attend in person or online, please visit the event page at Digiknow.Delaware.gov. There is no cost to attend. Please note that registration to attend in-person closes on October 8. Virtual registration will remain open through the event.

For a complete list of other Delaware Cyber Security Awareness Month activities, please visit the events calendar at DigiKnow.delaware.gov.

###

About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information

The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions.

30,000 Students Across the Country Sought to Qualify for Cybersecurity Competition hosted by the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation

Wilmington, Del. — Delaware’s Governor John Carney, Secretary of Education Susan Bunting, and Chief Information Officer (CIO) Jason Clarke today announced that four of Delaware’s most promising high school students have earned the coveted title of “National Cyber Scholar” after winning the rigorous 48-hour competition designed to evaluate aptitude in combating cyber threats, and showcasing the best of what the First State’s schools have to offer as part of CyberStart America. Winners included Kelsey Mulrooney, Molly Shapiro and Annamarie Warnke from Padua Academy and Albert Opher from Sanford School.  At the college level, Kirolos Boghdady from the University of Delaware and Evan Timko from Delaware State University ranked highest in Delaware and won scholarship awards. This is the fifth year Delaware has participated, with over 400 students taking part during this round. Overall, Delaware had 39 semifinalists, 7 finalists, and the final 4 Cyber Scholars that ranked high in the competition. Please see the complete list of Delaware’s winners here.

Over 30,000 high school students across the country sought to qualify for this year’s CyberStart America competition, and only 5,000 advanced to the first round. Of those students, only 600 nationwide performed well enough to earn the title “National Cyber Scholars.” These students each won a $2,500 scholarship and an invitation to participate in the Cyber Foundations Academy, a multi-week training and certification course.

“Providing our young people with the opportunity to learn about the high-tech, high-impact of the field cybersecurity is extremely important given the cyber threats that persist in digital world we live in today,” said Governor John Carney. “Congratulations to the National Cyber Scholars and to all the students who participated, and a special thank you to the SANS Institute for continuing to sponsor this incredible program.”

“Congratulations to the four Delaware winners and to all of the students who participated in this year’s competition. This type of opportunity allows students to hone valuable and highly marketable skills that will serve them well after graduation,” Secretary of Education Susan Bunting said.

“Delaware, like other states across the nation, needs trained cyber security specialists and it is encouraging to see so many young people take up this challenge and their interest in this field,” noted CIO Jason Clarke. “We hope they are able to discover a passion for technology and continue to develop their skills.”

Cybersecurity is a critical issue facing this country with the potential to impact our nation’s government, defense, communications and financial systems. According to recent studies, in order to properly defend our infrastructure from attack, we need to train more than 3 million cybersecurity professionals. This scholarship and competition are designed to attract and incentivize more students to enter the field.

“Competing in the Girls Go Cyberstart and Cyberstart America competitions have been incredibly rewarding experiences for me,” said Padua student Molly Shapiro. “I started my first competition in 2018 with no knowledge of cybersecurity and finished my final competition this year with the confidence to pursue a degree in cybersecurity. These competitions allowed me to realize and chase my passion for cybersecurity and have given me the skills and preparation I need to eventually enter the industry as a cybersecurity professional.”

“This scholarship recognizes high school students who have demonstrated exceptional cybersecurity talent,” noted David Brown, executive director, National Cyber Scholarship Foundation. “The NCSF mission is to help close the critical cybersecurity skills gap by identifying and developing the next generation of cyber professionals. Each and every student who participated in this competition has the potential to develop their skills and build a successful career in cybersecurity.”

There are several qualification pathways for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition including CyberStart America, a free online program that helps students discover their interest in cybersecurity and develop their talent and skills. The NCSC offers 600 college scholarships to top-ranking competitors. Additionally, National Cyber Scholars, along with the competition’s 1,000 finalists, are invited to participate in the Cyber Foundations Academy. To learn more visit: National Cyber Scholarship Foundation.

Delaware’s National Cyber Scholars will also be recognized during the annual Secure Delaware workshop on October 28. This event will be held both virtually and in-person at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.

###

About the Delaware Department of Technology and Information

The Department of Technology and Information (DTI) is the state’s central IT organization, chartered to deliver core services to other state organizations and exercise governance over the technology direction and investments of the state. DTI provides enterprise services that enable other organizations to effectively fulfill their missions.

About the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF)

The National Cyber Scholarship Foundation (NCSF) is a national nonprofit whose mission is to identify, nurture and empower the next generation of cybersecurity experts; and eliminate the cybersecurity skills gap in the United States. NCSF aims to support the entry of thousands of talented students to the cybersecurity industry by providing enrichment opportunities, world-class training, and scholarships to fund degree-level study.

About CyberStart America

CyberStart America is a free national program for high school students, aiming to uncover hidden cyber talents, and to identify and develop the next generation of cyber superstars. CyberStart’s immersive gamified learning platform can take students from zero cybersecurity knowledge to possessing the skills necessary to compete in a national-level Capture the Flag challenge in a matter of weeks. Students new to the field with a strong aptitude, as well as students with existing interest in the field, can use the platform to train and qualify for the National Cyber Scholarship Competition, allowing them to compete for life-changing college scholarship opportunities.