2016 started with a BANG for the worldwide hospital and healthcare industry. Several security-related incidents took place, from a ransom-ware attack on a LA hospital to an attack on a hospital in Melbourne, and so on. Three other incidents took place in the span of just 2 months into the new year!

While concerning for the security industry, it’s actually not a surprise. The healthcare industry was so far excluded in security breach concerns of the past, but with the Internet of Things on the rise, this industry has become as vulnerable as every other.

Modern Medical Devices More At Risk of Being Hacked

The medical devices and equipment used today in healthcare makes use of fully-functional computers that have complex operating systems and applications installed. Since most of these devices also make use of the Internet, external networks and various types of cloud based servers, cyber-criminals and hackers don’t need to put in too much effort to steal important data or make entire systems corrupt.

Web Application and Cloud Security Not a Concern for Health Departments

This has become a huge concern. Why? Unsecured authorization, program design vulnerabilities, unencrypted communication channels and critical buys and anomalies in software can and do lead to attacks. Security experts at Lean Security reckon there’re 3 main reasons why hackers and cyber-criminals are able to gain access to hospital systems so easily:

Ø Usage of Internet with no or weak authorization

Ø External devices not being protected (from being accessed) by local networks

Ø Vulnerabilities in software design and architecture

Lean Security’s Recommendations to Improve Security Infrastructure in the Healthcare System

Following these recommendations will not only improve security of your systems but will also educate employees on what should be done in case of an attack or breach.

Ø Implement IT security policies and make sure they’re being adhered to.

Ø Develop timely patch management and vulnerability assessment policies as well.

Ø Take steps to protect your systems from malware and hacker attacks.

Ø Keep a close eye on your own local network.

Ø Test all your web and mobile applications for anomalies and performance bugs.

Having a sound security infrastructure is quite possible with the right help. In addition to implementing IT policies and making sure employees know what to do in case of a security breach, you’ll need the help of expert security testing services. Get in touch with us to learn more.