Cyber security in healthcare

Why are Hospital Information Systems (HIS) at higher risk

Hospital Information Systems (HIS) are the digital backbone of modern healthcare facilities. They not only manage sensitive patient data but also facilitate essential processes such as scheduling, billing, and diagnostics. A successful cyberattack could compromise data security and significantly disrupt medical services.

Many hospitals continue to rely on legacy software that no longer meets today’s security standards. The rise of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices makes security even more challenging - every connected device is a potential entry point for attackers.

Key takeaways from the NTC report

A recent study by the National Test Institute for Cybersecurity (NTC) identified over 40 security vulnerabilities in hospital IT systems, highlighting the urgent need for action. The most critical findings include:

• Outdated architectures – Many HIS rely on legacy "fat client" systems, making them highly susceptible to attacks.
• Weak encryption – Security gaps in encrypted communication channels increase the risk of data breaches.
• Lack of system separation – Poorly isolated test and production environments create additional attack surfaces.
• Rapid system compromise – Some systems were found to be fully compromised within just a few hours.

These issues aren't limited to Switzerland. Similar problems have been reported in Germany, indicating that this is a systemic challenge.

The NTC strongly recommends regular security audits, including penetration tests and bug bounty programs, to identify vulnerabilities early. Additionally, hospitals should strictly separate test and production environments to reduce exposure to attacks.

Who needs to take action?

Providers of digital healthcare services

Hospitals, clinics, and medical practices rely on your software and digital solutions to be secure. Security flaws not only put patient data at risk but can also damage trust in your products. Demonstrating strong security provides a clear competitive advantage.

Hospitals and healthcare facilities

It’s not enough to assume that external digital services are secure. Independent security assessments are essential to uncover vulnerabilities before attackers do. The ultimate responsibility for protecting sensitive patient data and ensuring uninterrupted hospital operations rests with you.

Why external security testing is a must for healthcare

Many healthcare organizations lack in-house cybersecurity expertise to manage today’s evolving threats. External security testing provides an independent assessment and helps uncover vulnerabilities that internal teams might overlook.

Detecting security vulnerabilities before attackers do

External tests are a proven way of recognising security vulnerabilities at an early stage and rectifying them in a targeted manner. This is just where GObugtest comes in: a 2-day security assessment conducted by specialized ethical hackers. This test delivers a targeted security analysis of your digital services, helping you understand and mitigate risks effectively.

The benefits of external security testing

• Simulated real-world attacks: Ethical hackers test your system for vulnerabilities—without disrupting ongoing operations.
• Clear risk overview: Receive a structured report outlining weaknesses and practical recommendations.
• Strategic value: Ideal for providers looking to prove the security of their solutions, and hospitals aiming for a comprehensive security assessment.
• Fast results: A professional evaluation of your security posture within just a few days.
• Cost-effective: A high-impact security test designed for hospitals and SMEs with limited budgets.

How bug bounty programs strengthen security

Bug bounty programs are one of the most effective ways to systematically identify security vulnerabilities. The NTC report highlights their importance in improving cybersecurity:

• Find critical vulnerabilities before attackers do – Ethical hackers provide real-world, independent security assessments.
• Build trust – Transparency around security strengthens confidence among customers, partners, and patients.
• Enhance long-term security – Continuous testing fosters a culture of cybersecurity awareness and resilience.

What a cyberattack could mean

Imagine a scenario where a hospital’s HIS is compromised, and patient data is encrypted by an attacker. Appointments can no longer be scheduled, diagnoses cannot be processed, and treatments are delayed. Unfortunately, this is not just a hypothetical risk—hospitals worldwide have already experienced such incidents.

Strengthening healthcare cybersecurity together

Cybersecurity in healthcare is not optional—it’s a necessity. By taking proactive steps, hospitals and digital service providers can not only close security gaps but also strengthen trust and keep operations running smoothly in an increasingly digital world.