Death by hacking? US investigates possible cybersecurity flaws in medical devices
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is reportedly investigating possible flaws in medical devices that could allow hackers to gain control of the equipment and injure or kill patients.
Among the products under review are an infusion pump, implantable heart devices, medical imaging equipment and hospital networking systems, Reuters reports, relying on information from anonymous sources. A hacker who exploits cybersecurity flaws could order an overdose from an infusion pump, for example, or a deadly shock from a heart device, the story says.
Medical devices may be vulnerable to hacking when they have computer chips, software, wireless technology and Internet connectivity.
Companies that make the devices told Reuters they have made changes to their products to improve cybersecurity.
