Cyber security and the unexplored threat to global health: a call for global norms

Abstract

Cyber-attacks against hospitals, medical devices, and healthcare entities are becoming increasingly common; simultaneously, physical attacks against hospitals and healthcare entities are increasing. The purpose of this article is to explore the threat to healthcare from cyber-attacks. We undertake qualitative analysis of current and past cyber-attacks on healthcare system and look at these in the context of the increase in non-traditional threats. We conclude that there is a current and systemic threat to the healthcare sector from cyber-attacks by nation state and criminal groups, which is not currently being addressed in a systematic manner. Finally, we conclude that further discussion on key issues such as legislation and regulatory frameworks needs to take place at both a policy and practitioner level.

Keywords

• cyber security
• global health security
• public health
• epidemics
• covid-19