Cyber attacks go well beyond our networks and portable devices. As more industries rely on digitization for expansion and function, we can expect to see a higher risk of breach and compromise. Understanding the risks and proactively mitigating them is key to protecting brand perception and client safety in an organization’s user market.
One of the most high-risk areas in 2023 is the medical device industry. More medical devices such as accessible pacemakers, diabetic pumps and readers, are relying on digitization for function. While many companies in the industry have the infrastructure in place for process construction, they may not have cybersecurity policies that are robust enough to handle these risks.
Below, we’re exploring the range of risks that medical device companies may experience in 2023. We’ll also be covering elements of a cybersecurity plan that can limit liability across the industry—highlighting key first steps to take if you’re looking to bulk up your infrastructure.
How can cyber breaches affect medical devices?
Cyber breaches in the medical device industry can cause far more damage than brand compromise and inconvenience. The consequences can be life-threatening. From misuse to faulty reports, these breaches directly threaten consumer confidence and health and can result in millions of dollars in litigation. Having a cybersecurity strategy in place that proactively addresses the threats and a cyber resiliency strategy that can minimize the damage in the event of a breach are both key steps to take to protect the customers of healthcare device organizations.
What should be included in a medical device company’s cybersecurity strategy?
Like many other industries, medical device manufacturers work with sensitive client information and the direct health of their consumers. It is imperative that a solid cybersecurity strategy is in place, keeping all interests of the business and consumer protected at all times.
Elements of this strategy should include:
- Risk prevention. This can take place in many forms, such as early-detection software, ongoing education and clear SOPs in place in case of a breach—minimizing your scope of liability. Prevention is key across industries, and this industry is no different.
- Zero trust measures. Authentication is a critical concept that proactively avoids breaches and keeps your work and team as safe as possible. Zero trust, at the time of this publication, is more of a concept than a done-for-you package—often taking the form of multiple user authentications in a session, multi-factor authentication and ongoing monitoring to ensure that only appropriate access is given and used.
- Data management. While critical, this element of security is often covered by compliance tasks your organization does to protect user data. Remaining compliant is essential and should be prioritized across all levels of your organization.
Looking for personalized cybersecurity support?
There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution to your cybersecurity needs—which is why you need support from seasoned experts who know the risks intimately. Connect with the team at CHIPS today and ask about how you can secure a personalized cybersecurity audit and strategy for your organization: 651.407.8555.
