With smart medical devices and other Internet of Things (IoT) technologies becoming staples in healthcare, boosting IoT security is more critical than ever. This article explores practical strategies to defend against cyberattacks, secure patient data, and maintain regulatory compliance in today’s connected medical environments.
Strengthen network security
Many IoT devices in healthcare environments weren’t built with robust security in mind. That’s why network-level protection is important.
For devices that don’t require a live internet connection to deliver care, consider isolating or even disconnecting them from external networks. If internet access is needed, work with vendors to understand exactly which endpoints need access and create an allowlist that permits only approved traffic.
Further boost security by:
- Blocking known malicious websites using blacklists
- Restricting network traffic between departments using virtual LANs
- Segmenting public Wi-Fi networks from the internal hospital infrastructure
Monitor all connected devices
You can’t secure what you can’t see, so you must implement real-time device monitoring and inventory management.
Start by building a comprehensive list of all connected devices, from smart beds to mobile carts. But keep in mind that the influx of personal devices from staff and patients complicates this environment.
Invest in automated inventory tools that identify devices, track their activity, and report key specs like operating systems and firmware versions. This helps spot unauthorized or outdated devices before they become threats.
Encrypt patient data
Encrypting electronic health records both in transit and at rest helps protect sensitive patient information from prying eyes. Even if attackers manage to intercept the information, encryption renders it unreadable. This not only upholds patient privacy but also enables compliance with regulatory standards such as HIPAA.
Enforce implement multifactor authentication (MFA)
Usernames and passwords alone are not enough to safeguard online accounts. MFA adds a vital extra step, such as biometric confirmation, to strengthen account protection. By implementing MFA, you minimize the risk of unauthorized access to systems containing patient data, even if cybercriminals managed to steal your staff’s login credentials.
Deploy IoT security technologies
Many security vendors now offer solutions tailored for healthcare IoT environments. These tools can provide:
- Real-time network traffic analysis
- Device-specific patch management
- Automated alerts for unusual device behavior
- Enhanced authentication and access control
With the right tools, you can detect and respond to threats before they disrupt care or compromise data.
Need help building a comprehensive IoT security strategy for your healthcare organization? Contact our security specialists today and take the first step toward a safer, smarter future.
