Security Risks in Internet-Connected Medical Devices (IoMT): A Threat Analysis and Mitigation Approach

Abstract

The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and related technologies into the healthcare sector has revolutionized through the Internet connected Medical Devices (IoMT). Even though these devices are enhancing the diagnostics and real time monitoring they also possess significant cybersecurity risks and challenges. This paper will cover the evolution of cybersecurity threats targeting IoMT assess the impact on patient safety and data integrity, and proposes layered security framework important discoveries indicate that weak authentication, outdated firmware versions and insecure communication channels are some of the most often exploited weaknesses. The paper ends by suggesting legislative and technical actions to strengthen IoMT ecosystems\' security posture.

Introduction

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is a network of interconnected medical devices and applications that collect and transmit health data, transforming modern healthcare through remote monitoring, early diagnosis, and personalized treatment. However, the widespread adoption of IoMT introduces significant cybersecurity risks, including unauthorized access, data theft, denial-of-service attacks, remote code execution, and ransomware, all of which can endanger patient safety and disrupt healthcare services.

Real-world incidents like the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack on the UK's NHS and the 2019 vulnerability in Medtronic cardiac devices highlight the severe consequences of inadequate IoMT security, from service disruptions to potential life-threatening device malfunctions.

Key vulnerabilities in IoMT systems include outdated software, weak authentication, lack of encryption, insecure communication protocols, poor physical security, and insufficient lifecycle management. Effective security requires a layered approach involving secure device design, regular updates, strong access controls, data encryption, network monitoring, incident response, and compliance with industry standards.

Future-proofing IoMT security involves adopting AI for threat detection, zero-trust architectures, software transparency (SBOM), evolving regulations, lifecycle management, security-by-design, and workforce training.

In India, rapid digital healthcare growth lacks unified IoMT security standards, leaving rural infrastructure vulnerable and healthcare workers undertrained in cybersecurity. To improve, India needs national IoMT security standards, mandatory certifications, increased funding, and faster legal protections for patient data to safeguard its digital health initiatives.

Conclusion

The growing use of internet-connected medical devices is improving healthcare by supporting faster diagnosis, remote monitoring, and better patient care. At the same time, it introduces serious cybersecurity risks. If these devices are not properly secured, attackers could take advantage of them, putting patient safety, data privacy, and hospital services at risk. This paper explained the main vulnerabilities in IoMT systems, shared real-world examples, and discussed practical ways to reduce these risks. A strong security approach that includes secure device design, regular software updates, good access control, and clear rules can help healthcare providers stay protected. In the future, countries like India should work on improving laws, building awareness, and planning better for long-term digital safety. Keeping IoMT systems secure is important for protecting patients and building trust in digital healthcare.

References

[1] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (2023). Cybersecurity in Medical Devices: https://www.fda.gov [2] Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) (2023). Cybersecurity Framework for Indian Healthcare: https://www.cert-in.org.in [3] BBC News (2017). WannaCry Attack Impact on NHS: https://www.bbc.com/news [4] Medtronic (2019). Advisory on Insulin Pump and Cardiac Device Vulnerabilities: https://www.medtronic.com/in-en/patients/important-safety-notice.html [5] National Health Authority (NHA). (2023). Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: https://abdm.gov.in

Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Harikrishnan K V. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.