Healthcare Industry Faces Growing Cyber Threats: Insights from Seqrite Cyber Threat Report 2025
Understanding Cyber Threats in Healthcare
Seqrite's Cyber Threat Report 2025, conducted with the Data Security Council of India (DSCI), illuminates the alarming rise in malware detections within the healthcare sector. The healthcare industry has emerged as the most targeted, accounting for 21.82% of all cyber threats in 2024, surpassing hospitality and banking sectors.
Malware Landscape and Associated Risks
Among these threats, Trojans dominated, constituting 43.38% of detections, followed by infectors and worms. This surge stems from the sensitive nature of medical data, coupled with a heavy reliance on outdated systems and rapid digitisation of healthcare services, including electronic health records and telemedicine platforms.
Emerging Cyber Threats
- Advanced persistent threats (APTs)
- Vulnerabilities in the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT)
- Supply chain attacks
- AI-driven assaults
Significantly, while ransomware constituted only 0.30% of threats, its capability to disrupt crucial healthcare operations poses major risks.
Recommendations for Enhanced Security
- Regular security audits
- Employee training on cybersecurity best practices
- Implementation of advanced threat detection systems
- Collaboration with cybersecurity firms
As the digitisation of healthcare accelerates, protecting critical infrastructure holds paramount importance for national security and public health.
Impact of Previous Cyber Incidents
Historical breaches, such as the 2020 breach at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, highlight the gaps in cybersecurity, exposing sensitive patient information and demonstrating the sectors’ vulnerabilities. The rise of cyberattacks emphasizes an urgent need for investments in cybersecurity across the healthcare system.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.