Plugged in and wide open: The cyber risk hiding in hospital tech

Today’s healthcare is powered by connectivity - patient portals, remote monitoring tools, infusion pumps, MRI machines, even the HVAC system keeping the ICU cool. These aren’t just tools; they’re targets. As hospitals become more digital, the attack surface is growing fast. These technologies are critical for care, but often overlooked when it comes to security. A single vulnerable device - whether it’s a heart monitor or a connected ambulance - can be the digital crack that lets attackers in. These systems are collecting, transmitting, and storing vast troves of sensitive patient data. They’re always on, often under-secured, and deeply embedded in clinical operations. The risks? Not just downtime or data theft - think disrupted treatment, compromised care, even patient harm. While patients and providers trust the tech, cybercriminals are probing the gaps. It’s time to rethink resilience across the full stack of healthcare infrastructure.