Healthcare Data Breaches Doubled in 3 Years: Here’s Why

Healthcare data breaches have increased significantly since 2009, affecting over 370 million people’s personal information. These breaches are primarily caused by hacking and ransomware attacks, with incidents nearly doubling from 368 in 2018 to 715 in 2021. The breaches not only compromise sensitive data but also disrupt patient care. The financial cost of these breaches is substantial, with one San Diego-based hospital incurring $112 million in costs following a ransomware attack. The risks continue to rise, with responses to threats pivotal for preventing losses and safeguarding patient safety.