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According to the research conducted by Armis, a security and device management firm, numerous National Health Service (NHS) trusts struggle with inadequate visibility and monitoring of their network-connected assets. These assets include everything from traditional devices like computers and printers to Internet of Things (IoT) medical equipment like IV pumps and MRI machines.
The study examined more than one hundred NHS trusts and determined that a majority of them exhibited little to no knowledge of their connected devices, including the number of devices on their networks, the types of devices present, and their vulnerability status. In addition, many of these trusts experienced difficulties in keeping track of what software was installed on their devices and if any of it needed to be updated or patched.
This lack of visibility and weak asset management practices puts these NHS trusts at risk for cyber attacks, whether through rogue devices, software vulnerabilities, or other potential exploits. As healthcare organizations become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, it is critical that they maintain strong security and asset management protocols to safeguard sensitive patient data and prevent disruptions to patient care.
Connectivity is vital in healthcare, and as the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to revolutionize the field, we need to ensure that the data being transmitted from these devices is secure, and that hackers cannot exploit vulnerabilities in the system. Poor visibility of connected assets could lead to disastrous consequences, both in regards to the privacy of patients’ data and in regards to potential cyber attacks disrupting healthcare services.
As the security and safety standards shift in the healthcare field, it is essential to establish adequate security frameworks and practices that prioritize connected device security, data protection, and patient privacy. Armis suggests that NHS trusts should create an inventory of all devices present on their networks and invest in asset management solutions that can monitor and track these devices continuously. Establishing regular checks for software vulnerabilities, firmware updates, and patch management is also crucial for maintaining strong security.
A report by Armis has found that numerous NHS trusts are struggling with a lack of visibility and monitoring of their connected assets, including IoT medical equipment. To prevent potential cyber threats that could damage patient data and level health care services, it is essential that these trusts reinforce their security and asset management practices.
The solution is simple: NHS trusts should create a reliable inventory of all devices present on their networks and invest in asset management software to track and monitor these assets at all times. The implementation of these security frameworks will undoubtedly prioritize patient privacy and data protection, ensuring that healthcare practices remain secure and reliable in the evolving digital landscape.
After all, security is no laughing matter, especially when it comes to medical devices. But it’s good to know that Armis has our backs in this increasingly connected world!
Original Article: https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/uk-nhs-trusts-asset-visibility/
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