Cybersecurity in healthcare

Cyberthreats that pose a danger to patient safety are constantly developing, and companies that provide medical care must stay cautious in the face of these risks. Because of this, it's recommended that the C-suite of hospitals and other top executives do not consider cybersecurity as a problem that is simply related to technology and falls within the jurisdiction of their IT teams. Rather, it is essential to regard cybersecurity as a strategic priority and to include it in the hospital's pre-existing structure for enterprise management.

To safeguard patient information and maintain the safety of their companies, decision-makers must be aware of the most critical cybersecurity challenges in healthcare.

Internal threats

Anyone working for or contracting with a company who has been granted access to that company's internal networks and data is considered an insider. However, their actions may not be motivated by malice; they may have merely made an honest mistake that made private data public. Or, they may intentionally abuse their access for personal benefit or to commit fraud or crime.

Ransomware

A form of malicious software known as ransomware may encrypt users' files or lock them out of their own computers until a ransom payment is made. In recent years, it has grown increasingly widespread; now, ransomware is accountable for 17% of all cyber assaults that target the healthcare industry.

Since they frequently lack proper backups, healthcare businesses are especially vulnerable to cyberattacks. Because of this, even relatively minor ransomware attacks can result in major interruptions of business operations and substantial financial losses. There have even been instances in which patients have passed away as a direct result of ransomware outbreaks.

Older tech

Many hospitals and clinics are still using insecure computer systems and outdated software from decades ago. That makes it tough, if not impossible, to add in cutting-edge safety measures to these older systems. Thus, hackers can bypass security measures, acquire access to treatment plans, electronic health records (EHR), clinical data, and personally identifiable information (PHI), by exploiting known flaws in these platforms.

Vulnerable Internet of Things devices

The term "devices connected to the internet" (also known as "devices connected to the Internet of Things" or "devices connected to the IoT") is used to refer to all types of equipment, including healthcare devices like pacemakers and insulin pumps.

Sadly, a large number of the devices connected to the Internet of Things (IoT) do not have adequate security and may be hacked with relative ease. Once they have gained access to the facility through one of these devices, hackers have the ability to steal confidential material, such as medical information and commercial secrets. They might even cause surgeries to be disrupted by interfering with life-saving medical instruments, which would place patients in a very dangerous position.

Final thoughts

Healthcare businesses should take measures to strengthen their security strategy, including investing in improved security technology and boosting awareness among staff members. Yet, one of the most important things that should be done is to begin to treat these dangers seriously and to make cybersecurity in healthcare a top priority.