Medical Device Cybersecurity: What You Need to Know

Advancements in medical devices are improving healthcare by providing safer, convenient, and time-efficient care. Many of these devices are connected digitally for information sharing. However, this connectivity increases their cyber vulnerability, prompting the need for tightened cybersecurity. The US Food and Drug Administration collaborates with other bodies to reduce cybersecurity risks, providing guidance to manufacturers and issuing safety communications on identified vulnerabilities. Patients and caregivers can also contribute to cybersecurity by good password practices, keeping devices updated, and promptly reporting anomalies.