In recent years, the health service has faced significant cyber threats, most notably the WannaCry ransomware attack in 2017, which disrupted thousands of services across numerous NHS trusts.
In response to these growing threats, the NHS has significantly ramped up its cybersecurity efforts, recently announcing a £4.2 million investment aimed at enhancing cybersecurity across the health service. This funding is part of a broader strategy to upgrade outdated systems, implement advanced threat detection technologies, and strengthen the overall cyber resilience of NHS networks.
Conor O’Neill, CEO and Co-Founder of leading online pen test vendor OnSecurity, shares why the NHS is a target of cyber attacks and how hospitals can strengthen their security measures.
Why is the NHS vulnerable to cyber-attacks?
The integration of digital technologies in the healthcare sector has undoubtedly brought about transformative benefits, from streamlined patient care to improved data management. However, with these technological advancements comes a heightened vulnerability to cybersecurity threats.
Legacy Systems and Outdated Software:
The use of legacy systems and outdated software within the UK healthcare sector introduces vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. Ageing infrastructure may lack the necessary security updates and patches, making them susceptible to attacks. Healthcare organisations must prioritise the modernisation of their systems and ensure regular updates to mitigate this risk.
In 2016, thousands of computers across 42 separate NHS trusts in England were reported to be running Windows XP, an operating system no longer supported with security updates. This reliance on obsolete systems exposes hospitals to vulnerabilities that modern attackers can exploit.
Complex and Interconnected Networks:
The NHS’s extensive digital infrastructure connects multiple hospitals, clinics, third-party service providers, and medical devices. While this interconnectedness improves efficiency, it also introduces numerous potential entry points for cybercriminals. In 2021, an attack on Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) demonstrated how vulnerable healthcare networks can be. Hackers deployed ransomware that shut down IT systems across hospitals, severely impacting patient care. The NHS must enhance network segmentation, deploy real-time monitoring, and strengthen authentication measures to limit the spread of cyber threats.
High-Value Data:
Patient records contain sensitive personal and medical information, making them lucrative targets for cybercriminals seeking to sell data on the dark web or extort institutions. In 2020, Blackbaud, a cloud service provider used by several NHS charities, suffered a ransomware attack that exposed donor and patient data. Breaches like these can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and a loss of patient trust. Encrypting sensitive data and implementing stringent access controls can help mitigate these risks.
Resource constraints
One of the biggest obstacles to improving cybersecurity in the healthcare sector is limited financial resources. Unlike private companies, which often have larger budgets dedicated to security investments, many hospitals and health institutions operate under tight fiscal constraints. This lack of funding and budget cuts can result in outdated security infrastructure, inadequate monitoring systems, and insufficient incident response capabilities, leaving hospitals vulnerable to cyber threats.
Lack of awareness
Human error remains one of the leading causes of cybersecurity breaches. Many NHS employees lack proper training in recognising phishing emails, social engineering tactics, and password security best practices. In 2023, a phishing attack targeted an NHS Trust, tricking staff into revealing login credentials that were later used to access sensitive patient data. Regular cybersecurity training and simulated attack exercises can help staff recognise threats and respond appropriately.
How can NHS hospitals improve their cyber safety?
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Conduct regular risk assessments
NHS hospitals should take a risk-based approach to implementing cyber security measures. Identify and prioritise potential risks and vulnerabilities within your organisation. This could include outdated software, weak passwords, or insufficient employee training. Develop clear policies and procedures that govern how data is secured and accessed in your organisation. Ensure that these policies are communicated effectively to all employees and regularly reviewed and updated.
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Implement Zero Trust Security Models
A zero-trust security model assumes that threats can originate both externally and internally, requiring strict access controls. This approach limits users’ access to only the resources they need, reducing the potential damage from compromised accounts. Encrypting sensitive data, segmenting networks, and continuously monitoring for unusual activity can further strengthen security.
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Staff training and awareness
Education and training play a vital role in improving cybersecurity in hospitals. Regular training programs help employees recognise and respond to potential threats, such as phishing attempts and ransomware attacks. Cyber awareness campaigns and simulated attack exercises can improve response times and reduce human error, which is a major contributor to security breaches. Additionally, NHS employees should encourage continuous learning and professional development in cybersecurity, ensuring that employees stay updated on the latest threats and best practices.
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Digital Transformation
Modernising IT infrastructure is essential to closing security gaps in the NHS. Regularly update and patch software, firewalls, and network devices to protect against known vulnerabilities. Moving over to modern cloud-based technology can help to enhance cyber security due to its continuous updates. Using outdated technology can run the risk of minimal or discontinued updates, leaving software and systems more vulnerable to cyber-attacks.
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Develop a robust incident response and recovery plan
Despite preventive measures, cyber incidents can still occur. A well-defined incident response plan enables NHS organisations to quickly contain threats, minimise disruption, and recover lost data. Regular testing of response plans and collaboration with cybersecurity specialists can ensure a swift and effective response to cyberattacks.
Cybersecurity is a critical area of investment for the NHS as it seeks to protect patient data and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services. Having a robust cybersecurity incident response plan in place is not just about protecting systems and data – it’s about safeguarding public trust, ensuring the delivery of critical services, and complying with legal and regulatory requirements..By adopting a forward-thinking approach, the NHS can safeguard patient trust, ensure regulatory compliance, and build a more resilient healthcare system for the future.
