The Impact of Cyberattacks on Healthcare Patients: Key To Protect Patient Data

Cyberattacks on healthcare systems are increasing rapidly, and the consequences can be severe. Hackers target hospitals to steal patient data, disrupt critical services, and demand ransom. As a result, patient safety and trust are at risk. Fortunately, healthcare organizations can take proactive steps to protect sensitive information. In this article, you’ll learn how cyberattacks impact patients and what strategies can reduce these risks.

Hackers often expose patient data during cyberattacks. As a result, hospitals face serious risks because they store sensitive information. Moreover, these attacks disrupt services and put lives at risk, making cybersecurity a top priority for every healthcare provider.

How Cyber Attacks Affect Healthcare Patients

1. Using Sensitive Data for Ransom

Attackers use sensitive patient information for ransom. Ransomware allows them to get data from the health care system and hold it. They only release the data when they have been paid a specific amount of money or required ransom.

Only in the last year ransomware attacks on health care organizations has increased by 34%. This is a very straightforward situation. Data is held captive until an amount is paid.

2. Network Disruptions

Another direct attack on the health care industry is the attack on hospitals. The attack on Eskenazi Health, a health foundation, confirmed a cyber attack in October. Even after many days, the hospital saw a redirection of ambulances which caused network disruption.

How Should The Health Care Sector Defend Them?

Going for cyber insurance is a good idea. Making regular security checks and using the best anti-virus system can help a lot. So, it is important to keep an eye out and protect data.

Ready to secure your business? Schedule a free cybersecurity consultation with Cybesion today.

Cybesion is a Managed IT Security Service Provider, namely providing business grade cyber security protection.