Securing Healthcare IT Systems: Addressing Cybersecurity Threats in a Critical Industry

Abstract: The pharmaceutical industry has grown over the past decade especially with the embracing of technology in major parts of their operations. This dependence on the technology aspects has also resulted in increased vulnerability from attacks by hackers and other unauthorized persons on the internet. Various cybersecurity threats such as malware, ransomware, phishing, social engineering, insider threats, advanced persistent threats (APTs), and data breaches, have continuously caused loss of personal data as well as financial loss for companies. This research discusses these major cybersecurity threats that companies need to understand and put up measures to curb any unauthorized access to their systems. The key regulatory framework such as those outlined by HIPAA and FDA, are also explained and how companies can make sure they adhere to such guidelines. A detailed explanation of CISOs functions in pharmaceutical industry companies is also detailed herein.

Keywords: Malware, ransomware, phishing, social engineering, insider threats, advanced persistent threats (APTs), data breaches