An extensive probe has been launched following a warning of coordinated attacks on U.S. hospitals, as reported by the Health Information Sharing and Analysis Center and the American Hospital Association. The warning came after social media posts indicated potential terrorist threats targeting hospitals in mid-tier cities across the country.
The FBI has conducted a thorough investigation and intelligence review, ultimately concluding that there are no specific credible threats directed towards hospitals in any U.S. city. Despite recent posts on social media suggesting otherwise, the FBI has not identified any imminent danger to hospitals. However, the agency has pledged to immediately inform any potential targets if credible threat information emerges.
Last week, the Health-ISAC and AHA cautioned the healthcare sector to enhance physical security measures, cybersecurity defenses, and emergency response plans in light of the perceived threats. The concerns stemmed from social media posts, including one on X (formerly Twitter) from a user at American Kinetix, a firm with a leadership team composed of former CIA and Joint Special Operations Command veterans.
The X post highlighted a “highly credible threat” from ISIS-K, detailing plans for coordinated terrorist attacks on U.S. hospitals involving explosive devices, armed assaults, and hostage scenarios. The FBI collaborated with Health-ISAC and AHA to assess the validity of these threats and ultimately found no specific credible threat targeting hospitals in the country.
Errol Weiss, the chief security officer at Health-ISAC, expressed gratitude for the swift response from the FBI and emphasized the importance of maintaining robust security practices in hospitals. While the assessment did not uncover any imminent threats, hospitals are urged to review and reinforce their security measures to mitigate potential risks.
Despite the lack of immediate threat, hospitals remain susceptible targets for terrorist activities. Health-ISAC and AHA have previously issued alerts to the healthcare sector in response to escalating geopolitical tensions and extremist rhetoric advocating for attacks on soft targets like hospitals.
In conclusion, while the recent warning of coordinated attacks on hospitals has not been substantiated by the FBI’s investigation, the healthcare sector must remain vigilant and prepared to address any potential security threats. Collaboration between government agencies, industry groups, and healthcare facilities is crucial in safeguarding against evolving security challenges in the digital age.
