Legacy infrastructure remains a key vulnerability. Diagnostic and patient record systems, some over a decade old, often lack modern encryption or secure communication protocols. A sluggish patch cycle averaging 236 days provides ample time for malicious actors to exploit known flaws.
Adding to the challenge is the healthcare industry's limited cybersecurity investment. These outdated systems, embedded deep within clinical workflows, cannot simply be ripped out or replaced, meaning risk mitigation must work around and within them.
Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices have transformed diagnostics and treatment delivery, but their proliferation also expands the attack surface.
Around 42% of medical devices maintain external network connections, and a startling 38% bypass organizational firewalls. Restrictions from device manufacturers prevent healthcare providers from deploying standard security tools.
Implementing network segmentation, Zero Trust architecture, and AI-driven monitoring strengthens security without disrupting care.
Security must be treated as a core element of patient safety, not just a compliance requirement.
Embedding it into daily operations ensures long-term protection.
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