Modat reports over 1.2 million healthcare devices exposed to risks

Research from Modat, a European cybersecurity firm, indicates that over 1.2 million internet-connected healthcare devices display exposure to data risks. This study employed Modat Magnify's scanning technology and identified vulnerabilities particularly in regions including the United States and South Africa.

The assessment included various devices such as MRI machines, blood testing systems, and hospital management infrastructures. Contributing factors to the security issues identified were weak passwords and insufficient security configurations, with some systems lacking basic authentication, which allowed for potential unauthorized access.

Consequently, sensitive patient information was compromised, including medical histories and imaging results accessible via the internet. Modat partnered with Health-ISAC and Z-CERT for responsible disclosure efforts to inform the affected organizations of their vulnerabilities. The report highlights the crucial role of cybersecurity in healthcare for maintaining patient safety.

Soufian El Yadmani, CEO of Modat, raised alarms regarding the widespread absence of security measures on devices that are unnecessarily connected to the internet. As remote medical services increase, he recommends regular security evaluations and ongoing monitoring of connected devices to effectively address these risks.