Hospital Hackings Surge

The same technology that makes it convenient for patients to request prescription refills, view test results and schedule appointments with physicians has also made it easier for hackers to launch crippling cyberattacks on hospitals and healthcare systems, and analysts say there’s no end in sight. “These cyberattacks on our hospital infrastructures here and abroad only highlight the very urgent need for improved cybersecurity in healthcare overall,” said Steven McKeon, cybersecurity expert and founder of MacguyverTech, and MacNerd. In 2023, ransomware attackers most frequently targeted the United States’ healthcare and public health sector, according to a new FBI report, far surpassing other critical services like transportation and energy. According to analysts, cybercriminals launch these very intricate and damaging ransomware attacks to lock up critical computer systems and steal data as a means of extortion. Why is healthcare such an easy target? One reason might be its aging technology. “Our company’s experience and its increasing demand to fix outdated technology that is in some cases more than a decade old is quite alarming,” McKeon said. “With one in three Americans impacted by data breaches, modernizing these systems and enhancing cybersecurity measures are essential in protecting patient data and ensuring safety and continuity of care.” The healthcare system needs help in the form of increased federal funding and enforcement of required cybersecurity practices and enhancements. With rising cyber threats, McKeon believes protecting and educating others about security has never been more critical. “Collaborative efforts between governments and the healthcare industries are vital to tackling these threats and securing these systems for the long haul,” McKeon said. With more than 25 years of experience in the technology world, he focuses on enhancing cybersecurity practices through layered security, which deters hackers by increasing the effort needed to breach defenses. References U. S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2023). Internet Crime Report. https://www.ic3.gov/AnnualReport/Reports/2023_ic3report.pdf