The healthcare industry is currently facing an unprecedented wave of cyber threats. In 2024 alone, healthcare organizations experienced an average of 1,999 attacks per organization, per week.1 This alarming trend is expected to continue as many healthcare providers struggle to update their security infrastructure to keep pace with the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape.
One of the primary reasons for this vulnerability is the outdated infrastructure that many healthcare organizations still rely on. With AI driving the sophistication of cyber threats, these outdated systems pose significant risks to patient privacy, safety, and trust. The financial implications are also severe, with the average cost of a data breach in healthcare reaching $9.77 million, the highest across all industries.2
In 2024, 92% of healthcare organizations reported experiencing a cyberattack, marking a 4% increase from 2023.3Ransomware attacks have been particularly prevalent, accounting for up to 11% of all attacks in the sector.1 The average recovery cost of a ransomware attack has doubled since 2021, now standing at $2.57 million. 5
The statistics are stark:
- 67% of healthcare organizations were victims of ransomware attacks in 2024.4
- There was a 180% growth in attacks exploiting healthcare security vulnerabilities from 2023 to 2024.5
These figures highlight the urgent need for healthcare organizations to bolster their cybersecurity measures. Investing in modern, robust security infrastructure is not just about protecting sensitive information; it’s about safeguarding the trust and safety of patients.
For more detailed insights and to learn how your organization can enhance its cybersecurity posture, visit us online today.
Sources:
- Check Point Research Reports Highest Increase of Global Cyber Attacks seen in last two years – a 30% Increase in Q2 2024 Global Cyber Attacks: https://blog.checkpoint.com/research/check-point-research-reports-highest-increase-of-global-cyber-attacks-seen-in-last-two-years-a-30-increase-in-q2-2024-global-cyber-attacks/
- Average Cost of a Data Breach Rises to $4.88M; Falls to $9.77M in Healthcare: https://www.hipaajournal.com/cost-healthcare-data-breach-2024/
- 2024 Ponemon Healthcare Cybersecurity Report: https://www.proofpoint.com/us/resources/threat-reports/ponemon-healthcare-cybersecurity-report
- The State of Ransomware in Healthcare 2024: https://www.sophos.com/en-us/solutions/industries/healthcare
- 2024 Data Breach Investigations Report Healthcare Snapshot: https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/Ta55/infographics/2024-dbir-healthcare-snapshot.pdf
To ensure transparency, please note that artificial intelligence and large language models may be utilized to enhance the content of this article. This approach helps refine and enrich the information presented, ensuring accuracy and depth.
Jennifer Johnson
Jennifer Johnson, Director Healthcare Strategy and Business Development, joined Connection in 2010 starting in field sales and joined the healthcare practice in 2015. Jennifer has more than 20 years in IT, including prior roles in distribution and manufacturing. Jennifer holds her Certified Digital Health Leader designation from the CHIME organization and is a member of HIMSS, where Connection is a diamond sponsor. Jen was named CRN Women of the Channel in 2023 and 2024 and holds certifications from NVIDIA (AI Advisor- Sales) and Dell Technologies (AI Champion- Partner Sales).
