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Top Causes of Data Breaches in Healthcare: Guide to Preventing Them

  • Sarika Sharma

The sensitive nature of protected health information and its high black-market value have made the healthcare sector a prime target for cybercriminals. Healthcare providers are more vulnerable than ever before to data breaches as everything is getting digital. And along with benefits, it brings challenges – serious operational, financial, and reputational damages. 

Here we’ll talk about the importance of strong cybersecurity in the healthcare industry by examining the main reasons for data breaches, practical preventative measures, and current data.

Data Breaches Causes in Healthcare

Patient data is increasingly at danger due to external attacks and internal vulnerabilities, making healthcare data breaches a more serious issue. These are the primary causes of such breaches:

1. Phishing Attacks

Phishing attacks are the most common causes of data breaches not just in healthcare but almost in every industry. Hackers use fake emails, texts, or calls to trick employees into disclosing login credentials or downloading malicious software. This has become really easy with AI these days. 

  • How It Works: Employees get personalized phishing emails, messages, video calls (using deepfake) that look legit making it easier for the hackers to succeed. 
  • What Happens: If employees fall for it, hackers could get their login credentials and gain access to the system without authorization. This lets them take sensitive data or install malware.

2. Ransomware Attack

Ransomware, yet another major threat for the healthcare industry. This is because hospitals and clinics need constant access to patient files and important systems to work smoothly and provide the proper care. 

  • How it Works: It encrypts/locks files and systems, making them unusable until a ransom is paid. Since healthcare providers can’t afford downtime, they are often targeted.    
  • Statistics: In 2024, the healthcare sector experienced the most ransomware attacks in the U.S. Many reports suggest that such attacks on healthcare systems will increase globally. These incidents disrupt patient care and result in major financial losses.

3. Insider Threats

Insider threats, whether done on purpose or by accident, are a major worry in healthcare security. These threats can come from unhappy employees, contractors, or careless staff who fail to follow security protocols.   

  • Examples: Sharing passwords, accessing records without authorization, or clicking on malicious links are common mistakes. Some insiders with bad intentions might even sell the data on the dark web.   
  • Frequency: According to Verizon’s 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report, decrease in malicious insider threats in the Healthcare sector since 2018 has been observed. However, they saw that trend beginning to reverse itself to some degree last year. As a result, the Internal actor has taken back the driver’s seat in this industry.

4. Vulnerable Medical IoT Devices

The use of IoT devices in healthcare is growing quickly and offers many benefits, but it also comes with challenges. As more IoT devices are being used, security issues are also increasing. Devices such as pacemakers and infusion pumps often lack basic security features like data protection, strong passwords, and the ability to receive updates. This makes them vulnerable to hackers. 

  • Attack Vectors: Hackers use such devices to break into larger networks or to steal patient information directly.   
  • Challenges: As the number of IoT devices are growing, it’s getting harder for healthcare providers to manage them.

5. Third-Party Vendor Risks

To manage patient information, store data, and handle invoicing, healthcare providers frequently contract with third-party vendors. These outside businesses are an ideal target for hackers as they could not adhere to the same stringent security regulations as the organizations.  

  • Examples of Risks: Poorly managed login details, insecure company websites, or inadequate endpoint security can lead to the exposure of private healthcare information.

6. Outdated or Unpatched Systems and Software

Many healthcare organizations use outdated software, which creates vulnerabilities that hackers can take advantage of.  Such systems and limited resources often cause delays in applying patches or upgrading software.   

  • Impact: Outdated systems are some of the easiest entry points for cybercriminals. They can break in easily through these points and get past security and access private information. 
  • Example: The WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017 hit the healthcare industry hard. Wondering what caused it? Unpatched vulnerabilities in older Windows versions.

7. Cloud Misconfigurations

Misconfigurations are among the leading causes of data breaches. Poorly managed permission, weak access controls, and misconfigured storage can expose sensitive patient data. 

  • Increasing Risks: The quick move to cloud systems during the COVID-19 pandemic added more problems, as organizations hurried to expand their operations without fully addressing security issues.

8. Social Engineering Attacks

Such attacks use psychological tricks instead of technical vulnerabilities to deceive people into sharing private information.   

  • How It’s Done: Attackers might create fake scenarios, offer tempting bait, or pretend to be someone trustworthy to steal login details or access systems.   
  • Why Healthcare Is at Risk: In healthcare, workers often face a high-pressure environment and must make quick decisions, making them more likely to fall for these tricks.

9. Physical Theft of Devices

Theft of devices containing sensitive data remains a significant issue as healthcare becomes more digital. External drives, laptops, and cellphones are frequently targeted, particularly if they are not password-protected or encrypted. 

  • Impact: If a device isn’t secured, it can expose thousands of patient records, when lost/stolen, causing serious financial and reputational damage.

10. Data Sharing and Lack of Encryption

Healthcare groups often share patient information between different departments and outside organizations for treatment and research. If data is shared or stored without encryption, it can be easily accessed or stolen by unauthorized people. 

  • Compliance Concerns: As per HIPAA, patient records should be encrypted, if not it can result in hefty fines and penalties.

It’s important for healthcare groups to be well aware of these issues and understand them inside-out so they can find vulnerable spots in their security systems and work towards fix them. Effective solutions should include technical protection, use of tools like Fidelis Elevate®, proper training for staff, and strong management to reduce risks.

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Types of Data Breaches in Healthcare

Healthcare data can be breached in various ways, each throwing unique challenges at organizations. 

Hacking

When someone gains unauthorized access through phishing, ransomware, or malware.

Unauthorized Disclosure of Sensitive Data

This includes both internal and external misuse of sensitive information.

Device Theft

When devices like laptops or phones with unencrypted patient data are stolen.

Improper Disposal

Not securely getting rid of devices or documents that contain confidential information.

Human Errors

Mistakes such as misconfigurations or accidentally exposing data.

Impact of Data Breaches in Healthcare

  • Reputational Damage: Such breaches lower the trust of patients in the organization, making them hesitant to engage any further. Also, it affects an organization’s abilities to function effectively. 
  • Service Disruptions: Breaches can disrupt the ability to provide proper services, causing delays and affecting patient care. Ransomware attacks, especially, can shut down the whole healthcare operations, putting patient safety at risk. 
  • Legal and Regulatory Consequences: If healthcare organizations fail to follow data protection regulations, they can face lawsuits and fines.

Case Studies

change healthcare data breach

1. Change Healthcare Breach

In 2024, Change Healthcare was victim to a ransomware attack carried out by the malicious group ALPHV/BlackCat. It  impacted more than 100 million individuals and ultimately, the company ended up paying a $22 million ransom.

Elekta Inc

2. Elekta Inc. and Northwestern Memorial Healthcare Data Leak (2021)

A security breach at Elekta Inc. and Northwestern Memorial Healthcare exposed private information of individuals. And companies agreed to pay $8.9 million in a settlement, and compensation.

Guide to Preventing Data Breaches in Healthcare

1. Implement Strong Access Controls

Access control is essential for keeping healthcare data safe. Unauthorized access is a major cause of data breaches, and strong controls help reduce this risk.   

  • PoLP: Using the principle of least privilege to give users access to the data and systems reduces the chance of sensitive information being exposed.   
  • MFA: Make user logins more secure by requiring two or more verification steps, like a password and a fingerprint scan.   
  • Regular Access Audits: Check and update user permissions regularly. Remove any unnecessary access to lower the risk of insider threats.

2. End-to-End Encryption

Encryption keeps data safe from unauthorized access, whether at rest or transit. 

  • Advanced Encryption Standards: Use AES-256 encryption or better for the highest level of security.   
  • Regular Updates: Update encryption protocols regularly to stay protected against new threats.

3. Train Employees

Mistakes by employees often lead to data leaks, so training them is very important.   

  • Mandatory Training: Educate employees about the emerging threats, how to identify and fight against them. 
  •  Simulated Phishing Attacks: Run mock phishing campaigns to check and boost employees’ ability to spot such attacks.   
  • Cybersecurity Culture: Create a workplace where employees feel comfortable reporting possible threats without worrying about getting in trouble.

4. Protect Medical IoT Devices

The rapid adoption of IoT devices in healthcare brings special risks. To protect your devices those threats you should have the following:  

  • Update Firmware: Keep the software of medical devices up to date.   
  • Network Segmentation: Put IoT devices on separate networks to stop attackers from moving laterally within the system.   
  • Strong Authentication: Use strict authentication mechanisms to make sure only approved people can access these devices.

5. Perform Regular Security Checks

Finding vulnerabilities in your system before hackers can take advantage of them helps reduce risks.   

  • Use Security Tools: Use software to find outdated programs, weak configurations, and other system flaws.   
  • Test Your Defenses: Regularly simulate hacker attacks to see how well your security works and find any weak spots.

6. Develop Extensive Incident Response Plan

Have your offensive security strategy ready – Being ready is key to reducing the damage. 

  • Action Plan: Make a well detailed, clear and easy-to-follow plan that explains everything from how to identify, to mitigate, to recover from an incident.   
  • Mock Drills: Regularly run mock exercises to keep your plan loophole free and check if it works as intended. 

7. Advanced Threat Detection Solutions

Detecting and responding to threats quickly will lessen the damage from security breaches. Use solutions like Fidelis Elevate® for:  

  • Behavior Analysis: Monitor network activity and identify unusual behavior that could signal an attack.   
  • Extended Threat Detection: Identify and mitigate threats across your IT environment. 
  • Continuous Monitoring: Configure systems that monitor your IT environment 24/7 so you can detect and deal with threats right away.

8. Improve Security for Third Party Vendors

Vendors can sometimes be a way for hackers to get in. 

  • Audits: Carefully review the security measures of these companies before letting them use important systems. 
  • Contractual Safeguards: Add strong clauses in contracts to make sure these companies are responsible if they cause a data leak. 
  • Limit Access: Only give these companies the access they really need and monitor their activities.

9. Compliance with Data Protection Regulations

Compiling with rules and regulations helps keep patient information safe and prevents organizations from facing legal or financial penalties.   

  • Familiarity with Regulations: Learn about and follow laws like HIPAA, GDPR, and other relevant standards.   
  • Check for Compliance: Regularly review your policies and systems to make sure they adhere to regulatory guidelines. 
  • Report Issues: Have a plan in place to document and report any data breaches to the right authorities on time. 

10. Backup and Disaster Recovery

Having secure backups is essential in case of ransomware attacks or data loss.   

  • Separate Backups: Keep backups in a different location so hackers can’t access them.   
  • Test Recovery Plans: Regularly test recovery procedures to ensure quick recovery during real emergencies.   
  • Immutable Backups: Use storage systems that don’t allow backups to be altered, protecting them from ransomware.

Final Thoughts

Healthcare companies are facing sophisticated cyberthreats as hackers try to get their hands on confidential patient data. These firms can significantly reduce their risk by being mindful of the primary causes of healthcare data breaches, understanding their consequences, and implementing robust preventative measures.  

Also, using advanced tools like Fidelis Elevate® helps in detecting threats early and keeping a constant monitoring, allowing healthcare providers to protect data while maintaining trust and compliance.

Frequently Ask Questions

What steps should be taken after a data breach in healthcare?

Key steps to take after a data breach in healthcare: 

  • Isolate affected systems 
  • Conduct a forensic investigation  
  • Notify affected individuals, and  
  • Report the breach to regulatory authorities 

Why are healthcare organizations frequent targets of cyberattacks?

Healthcare organizations seem to be a tempting target to malicious actors due to the high value of PHI. And they frequently get attacked because of the outdated IT infrastructure, and lack of adequate cybersecurity measures.

How often should healthcare organizations update their security training programs?

Employee training should take place at least quarterly. Additional sessions should be added whenever new threats emerge, or policies are amended. Monthly security updates and regular phishing simulations should also be part of the training.

About Author

Picture of Sarika Sharma
Sarika Sharma

Sarika, a cybersecurity enthusiast, contributes insightful articles to Fidelis Security, guiding readers through the complexities of digital security with clarity and passion. Beyond her writing, she actively engages in the cybersecurity community, staying informed about emerging trends and technologies to empower individuals and organizations in safeguarding their digital assets.

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