HHS tools, data unleashed as part of Health Datapalooza IV, Hackers are increasingly targeting Android devices and more

By Ryan Kamauff

Here are the top cyber news and stories of the day.

• The future of military sensor systems: self-powered wireless Android boxes – DARPA’s new prototype sensor is an Android device with customized software. It allows sensor equipment to be plugged in as need be. The capability will be named ADAPT, and debut as a ground-based sensor but will hopefully hit air, sea and more. Via 9to5 Google, more here.
• Trojan Malware Targets Macs on the Web – The Trojan.Yontoo.1 is now sneaking onto Mac OS X computers via an adware plug-in. There has apparently been a general rise in Mac malware, over the past few months, according to some Antivirus firms. Via eChannel News, more here.
• Army hopes handbook will combat cybersecurity – “A guide distributed to military leaders is the U.S. Army’s latest scheme to combat cybercrime.” Training is truly a key element of cyber defense, but I am doubtful that this new handbook will do much to stem the tide. Via Smart Planet, more here.
• DoD decision on VistA disappointing – “The Defense Department announcement last month that it will move forward with plans to acquire a commercial electronic health record is disappointing, if not unexpected.” The DoD is now dropping their iEHR that they spent time and money developing, and looking for a commercial capability. Via FierceGovernmentIT, more here.
• HHS tools, data unleashed as part of Health Datapalooza IV – HHS has released new data and options for developers this week. This includes county-level data on Medicare spending. They are also “co-sponsoring a national competition called ‘code-a-palooza’ to design an app using Medicare data primary-care providers can use to help manage patient care. The winner of the contest will get $25,000.” Via FedScoop, more here.
• Hackers are increasingly targeting Android devices, McAfee warns – McAfee has seen 40% mobile malware in the first quarter of 2013. “Overall malware growth across all computing devices totaled about 15 million new pieces of malicious attacks entering McAfee’s ‘zoo’ in the first three months of 2013.” Mobile users need to be even more careful than ever. Via LA Times, more here.

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