The Israeli Ministry of Health has directed several hospitals to temporarily disconnect their internet systems due to concerns of a potential cyberattack. While no specific threats were mentioned, this preventive measure is part of an effort to bolster the hospitals’ resilience against cyberattacks. The action taken does not appear to have disrupted the hospitals’ ability to provide patient care. In recent years, Israeli hospitals have experienced a series of cyberattacks, including ransomware, DDoS attacks, and data breaches, which have had significant consequences.
This move follows a report by State Comptroller Matanyahu Englman in May, highlighting the vulnerability of Israel’s healthcare sector to cyberattacks. An evaluation involving a team of hackers supervised by his office revealed weaknesses in the security measures and responses to cyber threats within a major hospital.
At the same time, a particular concern is the susceptibility of hospital equipment like ultrasound and MRI devices, which are integrated into hospital information networks. The most recent incident occurred in September when a hacker group exposed patient data stolen from Israel’s Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Centre in Bnei Brak. These developments emphasize the ongoing challenges posed by cyber threats to healthcare institutions in Israel.
