Computer hackers hijacking your HEALTH? (Scary!)
It’s pretty scary – and crafty – who hackers will target and swindle these days.
Banks… business… even entire governments.
But your HEALTH?!
This isn’t some conspiracy theory… or some plot from a political thriller movie or TV show…
It’s a reality happening right under the nose of millions of Americans… and now the federal government is finally sounding that alarm on the steps you need to take to protect YOUR health and not becoming their latest victim.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently updated its guidance to companies that make pacemakers and insulin pumps – urging stronger security measures.
Why?
The software used to run these devices is susceptible to hacking.
This analysis has found that this is a “hypothetical” problem for now, with no actual reports of people’s devices being hacked for ransom.
But according to reports, the potential danger is there – and it’s real.
Don’t think this could happen in real life?
Then check this out…
Reports have found that hackers have increasingly targeted healthcare settings, including:
- Busting into 40 hospitals remotely last year
- And cutting off radiation machines used by cancer patients – making the devices unusable for a week!
In other words, devious and unethical hackers are trying to boost their randoms by targeting innocent people’s health.
Could you imagine your pacemaker suddenly shutting down? Or your insulin pump not operating correctly?
And there being NOTHING you could do about it?
Thankfully, there are steps you can take to avoid this terrifying scenario.
If you currently have a device like a pacemaker or insulin pump — and it’s “connected” – talk to your doctor to ensure you get any software updates (aka “firmware” updates and “patches”) needed to keep it secure. It also can’t hurt to change any default passwords for these devices to something more secure.
If you’re in the market for a medical device, make sure you have a newer model with updated security features.
To health security,
Sarah Reagan
Sources:
Dunleavy, Brian. “Pacemakers, insulin pumps can be hacked, experts say.” 6/1/22.
https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2022/06/01/medical-devices-pacemakers-cybersecurity/7041653656330/
