Microsoft to make key cloud log data available at no cost

Microsoft announced plans to offer government and commercial customers free access to additional cloud security logs beginning in September, prompting applause from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

“CISA and Microsoft have been working for the past several months to identify key logging activities to include in their offerings,” wrote Eric Goldstein, CISA executive assistant director for cybersecurity. “And we will continue to advocate for the adoption of Secure by Design principles with all technology manufactures — including the availability of necessary security data and strong default controls — and will continue to work with Microsoft through the [Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative] to identify ways to further enhance the security of their products for all customers.” 

John Riggi, AHA’s national advisor for cyber security and risk, said, “The AHA applauds the collaboration between Microsoft and CISA in this first step in ensuring cybersecurity in this ubiquitous technology is not an expensive option, but is foundational to the product. As the end users of technology, hospitals have many options in their selection of technology providers. After suffering years of relentless high-impact data theft and ransomware attacks, often fueled by insecure third-party technology, hospitals must carefully weigh risk and reward in terms of cybersecurity and clinical benefit when assessing technology purchases. As the government has emphasized, technology that is secure by design and secure by default must be the new norm — to protect patients and the nation.” 

For further information on this or other cyber and risk issues, contact Riggi at jriggi@aha.org. For the latest cyber threat information and resources visit www.aha.org/cybersecurity