Incident Response and Cybersecurity Overhaul for a Healthcare Software Provider
Client Overview
A mid-market healthcare software provider faced a cybersecurity incident that exposed vulnerabilities in their security posture. The company relied on secure remote access and compliance with healthcare regulations to maintain trust with its long-term clients. However, weaknesses in access controls, logging, and vulnerability management left them exposed to cyber threats.
Problem Statement
The client experienced an unauthorized access event that highlighted critical security gaps. A key service account was compromised due to missing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and unpatched system vulnerabilities. The company had limited security monitoring, making it difficult to detect and investigate the breach effectively.
This incident put the company at risk of losing a major healthcare client, potential exposure of sensitive patient and business data, and regulatory non-compliance. Without immediate intervention, their ability to operate securely in the healthcare sector was at stake.
Scope of Engagement
Our firm was engaged to conduct incident response and forensic investigation, followed by a comprehensive cybersecurity overhaul to:
Contain and remediate the security incident using NIST 800-61 (Incident Handling Guide).
Assess and strengthen cybersecurity controls using NIST 800-30 (Risk Assessments) and NIST CSF (Cybersecurity Framework).
Develop a business continuity and disaster recovery strategy using NIST 800-34 to ensure long-term resilience.
The engagement started as a one-time incident response effort but converted into an ongoing cybersecurity retainer as the client recognized the need for a long-term security transformation.
Approach & Solution
Following NIST best practices, we executed a structured security improvement plan that addressed immediate risks and established a foundation for long-term security maturity.
We first performed a forensic investigation to determine the extent of the compromise. Due to limited logging and no centralized monitoring, the investigation required manual log correlation and endpoint analysis. We identified unauthorized access through a misconfigured remote access system, disabled the compromised credentials, and conducted a full review of authentication security controls.
To prevent recurrence, we implemented multi-factor authentication (MFA) across all remote access points, reducing the risk of credential-based attacks. Centralized logging and security monitoring were deployed, significantly improving visibility into threats. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions were introduced, enhancing real-time threat detection and response.
Beyond immediate remediation, we developed a formal incident response plan aligned with NIST 800-61, ensuring faster response times in the future. A risk-based security roadmap based on NIST CSF was established to guide ongoing security improvements. We also implemented a structured vulnerability management program, prioritizing high-risk exposures to prevent similar incidents.
Recognizing the business impact of security weaknesses, we worked with the client to develop a business continuity and disaster recovery (BCP/DR) strategy using NIST 800-34, strengthening their ability to maintain operations during future security incidents.
Results & Impact
The engagement resulted in significant improvements in the client’s security posture and regulatory compliance.
The breach was contained and remediated successfully, preventing further compromise.
The company retained its critical healthcare client, demonstrating improved security controls and risk management.
Security policies and access controls were overhauled, eliminating key weaknesses.
Compliance posture improved, aligning with NIST and healthcare security best practices.
The company transitioned from a reactive to a proactive security model, with continuous monitoring and a structured risk management strategy.
Client Testimonial
We initially engaged this team to handle a security incident, but their expertise, structured approach, and ability to clearly communicate risk and solutions quickly made them an invaluable partner. Their work not only resolved our immediate security concerns but also transformed our security program into one that meets the highest industry standards. We now have confidence in our ability to protect client data, maintain compliance, and prevent future breaches.
Lessons Learned & Best Practices
Security weaknesses can put client relationships and business operations at risk. Even a single unpatched vulnerability or misconfigured account can lead to significant exposure. Implementing MFA, centralized logging, and a structured security program are essential for long-term resilience.
This engagement reinforced the importance of proactive security strategies, continuous monitoring, and structured incident response planning. It also demonstrated that cybersecurity is not just a technical issue—it is a critical business enabler that ensures long-term success and client trust.
