Cybersecurity in healthcare: why hospitals have become a favorite target for hackers

Cybersecurity in the medical field is no longer a secondary concern — today, it’s a matter of protecting not only confidential data but also human lives. Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories are increasingly targeted by hackers because their systems contain highly valuable information: from patients’ ID data to medical histories, credit card details, and even genetic test results. This data has significant financial value on the dark web (for instance, a medical record can sell for up to 50 times more than banking credentials) and can also be used for blackmail or identity fraud.

But the problem goes beyond data breaches. Ransomware attacks that lock down medical systems can lead to halted surgeries, disabled life-saving equipment, and interruptions in emergency care. In recent years, cyberattacks on the healthcare sector have skyrocketed: in 2023 alone, 133 million medical records were breached in the U.S., with total damages exceeding $10 billion.

High-profile cases like the Uniklinik Düsseldorf breach in Germany — which resulted in a patient’s death due to delayed treatment — or the 2021 HSE cyberattack in Ireland, which paralyzed health databases and forced doctors to revert to paper records, highlight a disturbing trend: healthcare has become one of the top targets for cybercriminals. The reasons are clear — critical and sensitive information, underfunded cybersecurity, and high stakes that make medical institutions vulnerable to extortion.

In this article, we explore why healthcare is under attack, the most common types of cyberattacks, their consequences, and what hospitals can do to protect their data and patients from digital threats.

Why healthcare has become a target for hackers

The healthcare sector attracts cybercriminals due to a unique combination of high-value data, critical infrastructure, and weak security. Unlike the financial or corporate sectors, where data breaches usually lead to financial loss, attacks in healthcare can have far more serious consequences — from identity theft to patient blackmail, where individuals may be pressured to pay to keep diagnoses or sensitive medical records confidential. Furthermore, data stored in electronic health records (EHRs) cannot simply be reset or replaced, like a password or bank account.

Medical information remains relevant for decades, making it extremely valuable for long-term exploitation in criminal schemes. Additionally, large hospitals and clinical networks handle not only patient data but also internal financial transactions, pharmaceutical procurement data, and research materials — all of which may be of interest for corporate espionage or even state-sponsored attacks.

Beyond the high value of the data itself, healthcare organizations suffer from multiple vulnerabilities that make them easy targets for hackers:

• Outdated software – many hospitals run on legacy operating systems that no longer receive security updates.
  
  
• Underfunded cybersecurity – IT security often isn’t a priority in healthcare budgets, leaving systems exposed.
  
  
• Low cyber awareness among staff – doctors and nurses often lack training in phishing, malware risks, and basic cyber hygiene.
  
  
• Broad access to critical data – patient records, insurance documents, and payment information are accessible to many employees, increasing the risk of leaks due to human error.
  
  
• Reliance on uninterrupted system operations – hackers know that halting a hospital’s infrastructure can endanger lives, which makes ransomware attacks especially effective.

Another key factor driving the surge in attacks is the lack of centralized cybersecurity policy in many countries. While the financial sector is tightly regulated, medical institutions often operate under general data protection guidelines without detailed protocols for incident response or preventive measures. As a result, cybercriminals are faced with the ideal conditions: high-value data, weak protection, and a critical dependence on digital systems — making healthcare one of the most vulnerable sectors to cyberattacks.

Key threats and attack scenarios

The digital transformation of healthcare has opened new opportunities for both patients and providers — but it has also created ideal conditions for cybercriminals. Hackers employ a range of attack methods aimed at breaching healthcare systems, stealing confidential data, and even extorting hospitals.

Among the most dangerous threats, four main types of attacks stand out: ransomware, phishing and social engineering, device theft, and attacks on medical equipment.

Ransomware – a digital threat to hospitals

One of the most common and destructive threats to medical institutions is ransomware attacks, which block access to critical systems and demand payment. These attacks typically follow a familiar pattern: hackers gain access to the hospital’s internal network, encrypt patient databases and operational systems tied to medical equipment, and then demand a ransom to restore access. If the ransom is not paid, the data may be deleted or leaked publicly.

Main consequences of ransomware attacks:

• Disruption of hospital operations – hospitals lose access to patient medical histories, surgical schedules, and lab results.
  
  
• Cancellation of surgeries and emergency care – without access to digital records, doctors are forced to work blindly, increasing the risk to patients.
  
  
• Financial losses and reputational damage – hospitals either pay the ransom or face lawsuits from patients over leaked personal data.

Phishing and social engineering – the weakest link in the hands of hackers

Cyberattacks don’t always require complex technical tools — often, it’s enough to trick a hospital employee into taking the wrong action. Phishing emails with malicious attachments or links are among the most common methods used to infiltrate healthcare systems. Hackers send fake messages that appear to come from hospital administration, IT departments, or medical suppliers, prompting staff to enter login credentials or download malware.

Common social engineering tactics:

• Fake emails – staff receive emails with instructions to “update passwords” or “urgently review documents.”
  
  
• Phone calls from fake tech support – hackers impersonate IT personnel to extract login information.
  
  
• Infected USB drives – USB sticks left around hospital premises may contain malware that activates when plugged into a computer.

Device theft and physical access – threats beyond the screen

Not all cyberattacks happen remotely. Hospital equipment, doctors’ mobile devices, and administrative computers often lack proper physical security. If a doctor’s laptop containing access to electronic health records falls into the wrong hands, sensitive data can be stolen without any hacking at all.

Physical access threats include:

• Theft of unsecured laptops and tablets – devices that store critical information often lack encryption or two-factor authentication.
  
  
• Unrestricted access to server rooms – if a hospital’s servers are not physically secured, an attacker could directly connect to the network.
  
  
• Poor access card management – a lost or stolen staff access card can allow unauthorized individuals into restricted areas.

IoT and medical device attacks – when lives depend on digital security

Modern hospitals increasingly rely on network-connected devices: patient monitors, infusion pumps, pacemakers, ventilators, and other life-supporting systems. However, most of these devices were not designed with cybersecurity in mind, making them easy targets for attacks.

Risks of attacks on medical equipment:

• Remote interference with device functionality – hackers can alter settings or disable medical devices entirely.
  
  
• Use of unsecured communication protocols – older models may transmit data in plain text, allowing interception and tampering.
  
  
• Widespread attacks on hospital IoT networks – compromising a single device can give hackers access to the entire medical infrastructure.

Cyberthreats in healthcare are becoming more sophisticated, and installing antivirus software alone is no longer enough. Ransomware, phishing, device theft, and IoT attacks are just a few tactics in a hacker’s arsenal, exploiting every possible weakness in security systems.

To counter these threats, medical institutions must implement multi-layered protection, train staff to recognize threats, and adopt modern technological solutions to minimize risks and ensure the safety of both data and patients.

Consequences of cyber incidents in healthcare

Cyberattacks on medical institutions can lead to critical system failures, complicating diagnostics, treatment, and emergency procedures. Losing access to vital signs monitoring due to an attack can have fatal consequences. Hospitals also suffer major financial losses from ransom demands, data recovery costs, and potential lawsuits from patients.

An institution’s reputation may be severely damaged, as patients begin to doubt the safety of their personal data. Moreover, violations of international cybersecurity standards such as GDPR or HIPAA can result in legal penalties and even criminal liability for management.

Legal framework and standards

The global digitalization of healthcare services requires clear legal regulations to ensure the protection of patient data and safeguard medical institutions from cyberattacks. Different countries have specialized regulatory acts that define how medical information should be collected, stored, and processed — and impose strict penalties for violations.

In the United States, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) plays a key role in cybersecurity regulation, requiring hospitals, insurance companies, and medical service providers to comply with strict security standards. In the European Union, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) performs a similar function, enforcing stringent rules for any organization working with personal data, including healthcare providers. Failure to comply can result in multi-million-euro fines, business shutdowns, or criminal prosecution of responsible individuals.

In addition to international regulations, each country has its own legal framework for cybersecurity in healthcare. In Ukraine, the main document is the Law on Personal Data Protection, which regulates the handling of confidential information and outlines the responsibilities of medical institutions in securing it.

To meet security requirements in healthcare, the following international standards are applied:

• ISO/IEC 27001 – an information security management system (ISMS) standard that defines policies and measures to protect data from cyber threats.
  
  
• NIST Cybersecurity Framework – a set of guidelines developed by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology for building cybersecurity strategies in healthcare.
  
  
• PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) – security requirements for payment systems, relevant for hospitals that accept online payments for medical services.
  
  
• HL7 & FHIR (Health Level 7 & Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources) – standards for medical data exchange, ensuring secure and compatible data transmission between systems.

Complying with these standards not only reduces the risk of data breaches but also helps hospitals avoid sanctions and reputational damage caused by security failures. In today’s threat landscape, healthcare institutions must go beyond legal compliance and actively implement cybersecurity best practices to protect patient data and maintain operational stability.

Key approaches to protection

Effective cybersecurity in healthcare requires a comprehensive approach that includes both technical solutions and organizational measures. Since most cyberattacks exploit not only system vulnerabilities but also human error, a strong security strategy must address all potential threat scenarios.

Protection begins with establishing clear internal security policies and conducting ongoing staff training. A lack of awareness among doctors and administrative personnel regarding threats like phishing or password manipulation can lead to serious breaches — even if technical defenses are in place.

Medical institutions should implement multi-factor authentication (MFA), enforce strong password policies, and restrict access to sensitive data based on staff roles. Controlling physical access to server rooms and devices containing critical information is equally important.

Core protective measures for medical institutions include:

• Access control – employees should only have access to the data necessary for their specific duties.
  
  
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) – using additional layers of verification during system login.
  
  
• Regular software updates – keeping operating systems, antivirus programs, and applications current to fix known vulnerabilities.
  
  
• Network segmentation – dividing the hospital's internal network into isolated zones to prevent malware from spreading and to limit unauthorized access.
  
  
• Data backups – storing encrypted copies of critical data in an independent environment for quick recovery after an attack.
  
  
• Physical access control – securing server rooms, workstations, and medical devices against unauthorized entry.
  
  
• Security monitoring – deploying SIEM systems (Security Information and Event Management) to track suspicious activity and respond quickly to threats.

From a technological standpoint, hospitals should segment their IT infrastructure to isolate compromised systems and prevent uncontrolled malware spread.

Key security tools include antivirus software, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and firewalls, which block unauthorized access attempts. Since ransomware remains a primary threat, it's critical to regularly back up data in encrypted form and store it in an independent location disconnected from the main hospital network.

To identify potential risks, institutions should conduct regular security audits, including penetration testing, and integrate SIEM systems to monitor cyber incidents in real time. A holistic approach to cybersecurity helps minimize the risk of attacks, protect critical medical systems, and ensure the continuous operation of healthcare services.

Innovation and modern solutions

Technology is evolving not only for attackers but also for defending medical institutions against cyber threats. Today, hospitals have access to advanced tools that help protect patient data, detect threats in real time, and prevent attacks before they occur.

• Cloud technologies have become a key component of hospital cybersecurity. They allow for the secure storage of medical data and fast recovery in case of loss or system failure. More and more healthcare providers are adopting secure cloud services, which not only streamline operations but also reduce the risk of data leaks. However, it’s crucial to properly configure access controls to ensure that critical data doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
• Another powerful tool is artificial intelligence (AI). AI helps detect threats before they cause harm. Algorithms analyze user behavior within the system and flag suspicious activity — for example, if someone tries to access records they’re not authorized to view. AI can also automatically block potentially dangerous actions, stopping an attack before it causes damage.

Smart medical devices (IoT) and blockchain also play a growing role in healthcare security.

• IoT security: With more and more medical devices connected to the network, protecting them is essential. If a hacker gains access, they could not only steal data but also manipulate device functionality, putting patient lives at risk. Strong encryption and firmware update management are key to preventing this.
• Blockchain: This technology ensures maximum transparency and security in storing medical records. Data stored on the blockchain cannot be altered or forged without the knowledge of all system participants, making it resistant to tampering and attacks.

Emerging technologies offer tremendous potential to secure healthcare from cyber threats — but successful implementation requires a thoughtful approach. The key is not just adopting cutting-edge tools, but also training staff to use them correctly, because security begins with the responsibility of everyone who handles patient data.

Recommendations for different stakeholders

For cybersecurity in healthcare to be truly effective, every participant — from hospital leadership to patients — must play their part in protecting medical data. Here are specific recommendations for everyone involved in handling sensitive health information.

Clinic and hospital leadership

Security must become a strategic priority, not a secondary task. Investing in data protection not only reduces the risk of attacks but also ensures uninterrupted hospital operations.

• Allocate a dedicated budget for implementing modern cybersecurity tools and staff training.
  
  
• Develop a clear incident response plan outlining who does what in case of an attack.
  
  
• Conduct regular security audits to test system resilience against threats.
  
  
• Manage access controls, ensuring different staff roles have appropriate data permissions.

Medical staff

Most attacks happen due to human error. Hospital employees need to know how to recognize threats and practice safe behavior.

• Use strong passwords and change them according to hospital policy.
  
  
• Be cautious of phishing emails and avoid opening suspicious attachments or links.
  
  
• Do not use personal devices to access or store medical records.
  
  
• Always lock your workstation when stepping away from your desk.

Patients

Protecting medical data is not solely the hospital’s responsibility — patients can contribute to their own data security.

• Ask how your personal data is stored and what security measures are in place.
  
  
• Avoid sharing unnecessary personal information over the phone or via unencrypted channels.
  
  
• Use unique, secure passwords for personal medical portals or patient accounts.

IT and security teams

These professionals are on the cybersecurity front lines, and their approach must be proactive.

• Keep all software up to date and monitor for newly discovered vulnerabilities.
  
  
• Enforce two-factor authentication (2FA) for accessing critical systems.
  
  
• Conduct regular penetration tests to identify and fix weak points.
  
  
• Deploy SIEM systems (Security Information and Event Management) to monitor activity and respond swiftly to threats.

Cybersecurity in healthcare is a shared responsibility, starting with basic awareness and extending to strategic planning. Every individual who works with patient data plays a vital role in ensuring its protection.

Case studies: what can go wrong?

Real-world healthcare breaches

Cybercriminals regularly target hospitals around the world, and the consequences of these attacks can be catastrophic. One of the most high-profile incidents occurred in Germany in 2020, when hackers attacked the systems of Uniklinik Düsseldorf. As a result of server lockdowns, critical medical services became unavailable. A patient in need of urgent care had to be transferred to another hospital — and tragically, she died due to the delay.

Another major incident took place in Ireland in 2021, when a ransomware attack crippled the national healthcare system. Medical records were encrypted, and hospitals were forced to revert to paper-based documentation. This led to the cancellation of numerous procedures and substantial financial losses. Both cases illustrate that vulnerabilities in cybersecurity can impact not just hospital operations, but patient lives.

Common mistakes and success stories

Among the most frequent causes of successful cyberattacks are weak passwords and the lack of two-factor authentication, which allow hackers to easily access medical systems. Another critical mistake is running outdated software with no current security updates. Hospitals relying on decade-old equipment create ideal entry points for attackers.

However, there are also positive examples of effective protection. In the United States, one hospital successfully avoided disaster thanks to a well-established backup system. Following a ransomware attack, they restored all data without paying a ransom. In another case, continuous security monitoring helped a hospital avoid a large-scale breach — an intrusion detection system flagged suspicious activity, and the IT team blocked the attack before the data was encrypted.

These cases show that even the worst scenarios can be prevented if hospitals implement smart security practices and prepare in advance.

Conclusion: cybersecurity in healthcare is not optional — it's essential

In today’s digital world, hospitals and medical institutions remain one of the most vulnerable targets for cybercriminals. Data breaches, system shutdowns, extortion, and threats to patient safety are no longer hypothetical — they are the reality healthcare faces. Technological advancements improve treatment quality, but they also open new doors for attacks.

Still, the situation is far from hopeless. Hospitals that take a proactive approach to cybersecurity show that even serious threats can be contained. Investing in cybersecurity, training staff, deploying modern protection technologies, and developing clear incident response plans are not just nice-to-have — they are essential for operational stability.

Cybersecurity in healthcare is not just about protecting data — it’s about protecting lives.
Datami helps hospitals, clinics, and labs identify vulnerabilities, prevent attacks, and ensure compliance with international standards.

Strengthen your medical institution’s cyber resilience with Datami. Contact us for a consultation.