Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is nothing but a collection of medical devices and applications connecting to healthcare IT systems. The devices are equipped with Wi-Fi for every communication. This IoMT has brought opportunities for improved medical processes for the treatment of the patients, but at the same time, it has created vulnerabilities too.
Cyber-attacks are rising severely in the healthcare industry since medical records/ data carry immeasurable value than any other online scams. Medical information includes a patient’s medical history; prescriptions, test reports and hackers can access this sensitive data through network-based medical devices as a result of IoMT.
Experts of IT security in healthcare industry in India are gearing up to face the possible cyber-attacks on connected medical devices in both clinic and home. These devices have not been designed with security as a top-of-mind concern since developers are primarily focused on functionality and ease of use.
According to a research report of Allied Market Research, the global IoT healthcare market can reach $136.8 billion by 2021, registering a CAGR of 12.5% between 2015 and 2021, driven by popularity of wearable smart devices and decreasing price of sensor technology.
The huge inflow of connected devices in medical industry has increased the possibilities of cyber-attacks. Most of the healthcare centers lack proper security measures. The combination of these two factors makes the cyber criminals’ job easy. Healthcare organizations, especially across Asia Pacific region can take up few strategies to prepare against impending IoMT cyber-threats:
Maintain network security
It is wise to secure the network with prevention and detection measures to maintain good network hygiene. It includes systematic patching of the vulnerable systems and replacing the old technologies that support no longer.
Incorporate security solutions with firewall
IT managers in healthcare organizations should have firewalls implemented to filter out incoming and outgoing messages inside the official network to protect it from all types of network-based attacks. eScan antivirus and content security solution can prevent any unauthorized access, malware attack or data breach in the healthcare network zone.
Appoint exclusive and dedicated IT team
A dedicated IT security team can monitor the latest threats in real-time and mitigate updates expeditiously before the criminals can take advantage of any vulnerability of the connected IoT device or the server. In addition, this team can keep the management updated about the security level and any requirement to secure the network and devices.
Cyber crooks are eyeing healthcare industry where they are likely to spread in a bigger way soon. The obvious result would be overall downtime; improper response from medical apparatus, unexpected legal fees and above all damage of reputation. It can cost the center millions of money and keep them away from providing quality medical service to the patients for an undecided period. The best way to avoid cyber-attacks is to ensure a robust and integrated security strategy to detect and mitigate cyber-attacks in real-time to every healthcare units.
