Small and rural hospitals now offering cybersecurity services for protection

TLDR:

• Hospitals, including small and rural ones, are becoming more connected to the internet, increasing the risk of cyberattacks.
• Google and Microsoft are offering free security assessments and discounts on cybersecurity tools to small hospitals to help protect valuable patient data.

Just like the rest of us, hospitals are becoming more connected. Everything from MRI machines to heart rate monitors are linked to the internet. The latest equipment improves patient care, but connection comes with risk. Investing in cybersecurity tools is crucial for hospitals, especially small ones. Cyberattacks against healthcare facilities have doubled, and protecting against them is challenging for smaller hospitals due to cost and recruitment issues. Google and Microsoft are offering free security assessments and discounts on cybersecurity tools for small hospitals, aiming to keep communities safe. However, experts emphasize the need for ongoing support and federal funding to help hospitals respond to attacks. Training and emergency plans for doctors are also essential to ensure patients receive lifesaving care during cyberattacks.