Security breaches often occur in the healthcare industry due to the prevalence of networked medical equipment.
In the United States, each hospital bed has access to between 10 and 15 linked gadgets. An attacker might use any one of them as a way in. The hospital and its patients are in danger as a result of this.
For example, due to the rising popularity of pacemakers, healthcare cybersecurity risks damage is possible not only to the business but also to individual patients.
Device #1: Drug Infusion Pumps
Drug infusion pumps are used to deliver medication to patients. These healthcare-connected devices communicate with external devices via wireless communication protocols, such as infusion pumps and medical diagnostic equipment.
The lines of communication between these two separate devices are not secure. The malicious hacker could go on a rampage in the hospital.
Device #2: Pacemakers
Pacemakers store and process data, which is vital for both the patient and the physician. This advanced device controls heartbeats, delivering adequate electricity into the body if they get disrupted. Because of its importance, the pacemaker is commonly used in the medical system.
The wireless broadband radio module, which is used in pacemakers to send information between the two devices, is susceptible to mass hacking. If a hacker managed to hack into this device and change data, it could endanger patients.
Device #3: EKG Machines
Electrocardiogram machines are necessary for patients with heart problems since they provide constant monitoring.
The devices are used to measure heart rate and rhythm, which can be extremely useful for patients.
It is important to note that hackers could affect the devices remotely and manipulate a patient’s heartbeat. For example, if a hacker wanted to create an incident for profit or political reasons, it might not hesitate to use the device as a weapon.
Device #4: Portable X-ray Devices
Portable X-ray machines are used for diagnostics and therapies. Hackers could get access to this device. If they changed the machine’s settings or modified stored images, it might harm a patient during treatment.
In addition, the hacker could attempt to move the device from its location in the hospital and use it for ransom.
Because of the significance of their information and network size, hospitals and medical practices are susceptible. Using connected medical devices and their advantages don’t imply your clinic must be subject to healthcare cyber threats.
To avoid unauthorized access to your network and patient data, you must protect, monitor, segregate and periodically update all of your connected medical equipment.
