Hacking is unauthorized intrusion into computer or a network. The Hacker may alter system or security features to accomplish a goal that differs from the original purpose of the system. Hacking is an attempt to exploit a computer system or a private network inside a computer.

Last several years we have seen expansion of the Faceless Criminals attacking small businesses including the countries small & large in cyberspace. But the concerning factor is that the number of cyberattacks on the field of healthcare are also rapidly growing.  One of the uncomplicated targets is the legacy medical imaging equipment and also outdated medical IT systems such as CT scanners, C-arms, and MRIs. These systems are weak links which could be easily accessed by hackers who want to enter into medical information technology systems. But, here comes the explanation of why they are so easy to be hacked. Their reliance on the operating systems which are unable to make an upgraded security such as Windows NT or XP is the reason for hacking. Because of this, it is very easy for hackers to access patient information.

There is a special need for protecting patients and their data so that hackers and attackers couldn’t hack an insulin pump to administer a fatal dosage. Those vulnerable medical machines are also connected to a huge array of computers, monitors and sensors, making them a potential access points to the larger hospital networks. That can mean the sensitive medical records theft or an attack which holds vital systems hostage until the administrators pay up.

All medical equipment with features like wireless connection, near-field communication tech, and remote monitoring allows health workers to adjust tune implanted devices without any invasive interventions. This is a great thing but, they have to keep in mind that those convenient things are potential points of cyber exposure. However, these cyber attacks evolve constantly. Some hospitals adopted a more sophisticated system in the recent months. But, who knows if this system will function properly.

There are several key points all providers could take in order to keep their patient’s equipment away and safe from cyber hackers.

Several tips to protect the medical equipment from hackers

• Knowing the product: All medical technicians should take a close look and investigate their medical equipment before deciding to put them to use. They have to be sure that the manufacturer created the device with cybersecurity systems which is becoming a new requirement in the new world we live in! It is good to know that the producer is responsible for the device security and should work on the risk of cybersecurity. Any interests from the medical team about cybersecurity could lead to better transparency in the future medical
• Sharing information: According to FDA recommendations, organizations, hospitals, and business professionals needs to participate in Information Sharing Anal This information sharing network is meant to help in the detection and identification of cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the medical machines. They could help in finding and fixing the potential gaps in the security system before any patient is made vulnerable. By sharing experience and information the technology of medical equipment could stay one step ahead of cyber hackers.
• Creating a plan: Every medical machine attached to the network is unprotected to security attacks. It is almost impossible to eliminate those types of risks but, the manufacturer should make provisions to minimize the threat. All medical teams should be protected from these types of attacks. They have to analyze their network and make a plan for cybersecurity of their devices.
• Adopt better security: This means that medical professionals should use strong passwords, biometric scanners, or smart card systems just to make it more difficult for hackers to attack private information of the patients. According to some rules, the more secure the medical network is the more secure the medical devices would be. Frequent password changing is a great way to make your devices more secure from hacking threats.
• Updating technology: Because of this cyber attacks, the FDA permits routine updates of the medical software. They have created a special way to make the updates on a simpler and faster way. The big advantage is that all medical teams have to keep their medical devices and software up to date.
• Identify the hazards: This kind of medical hacking is known as social engineering and it classified as dangerous and effective. In order to avoid this security breach, medical workers and their colleagues have to know the tactics which hackers use for manipulating their targets.

Summary

Medical technology is in constant and rapid progress and with the new innovations comes new risks and threats. All they have to do is stay proactive to secure their medical devices. This way their patients would be safe and protected. According to many studies, cybersecurity is listed as a secondary to all medical purposes even in cases where cybersecurity can result in death or severe injury. However, all patients deserve better security and better treatment. It is up to the medical organizations and hospitals to take these risks into consideration.  This is another worry but it can be prevented and eliminated.

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