The healthcare sector is a goldmine for cybercriminals, and it’s a reality that Michael Harrison knows all too well. As Chief Information Security Officer at a leading hospital trust in the UK, he’s seen firsthand the consequences of a data breach and the frantic scramble to mitigate its effects. In a recent conversation, Michael delved into why advanced encryption technologies, particularly Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE), could be the game-changer the healthcare sector so desperately needs.
“Take encryption, for example,” Michael began, leaning back in his chair as we settled into our discussion. “It’s a long-used method that involves data being locked up in a secure ‘box’ – the encrypted form – using a key. Data is 100 per cent secure until it’s decrypted, which has to happen if you need to do anything useful with it, like performing calculations or searches. At this point, the data is vulnerable, and if someone gains access during this phase, privacy is compromised.”
In recent years, healthcare institutions have become prime targets for cyberattacks, with the sector facing a staggering 1,999 attacks per week. As Michael explained, the stakes are incredibly high. “We’re talking about sensitive patient data – personal information, medical histories, genetic data – all of which are highly valuable on the black market. Not to mention, the impact on patient care can be devastating. We’ve seen delays in procedures, compromised patient safety, and significant financial losses.”
The conversation naturally shifted to the limitations of current cybersecurity measures. While tools like multi-factor authentication and intrusion detection systems have their place, Michael was quick to point out that these are not foolproof. “It’s a complex puzzle,” he said. “Human error, third-party risks, and legacy systems all play a part in keeping our data secure. But the reality is, we need a comprehensive approach that integrates multiple tools and protocols.”
This is where Fully Homomorphic Encryption comes in. According to Michael, FHE is a breakthrough technology poised to revolutionise data security in healthcare. “The beauty of FHE is that it allows computations to be performed directly on encrypted data. This means there’s no need to decrypt the data at any stage, which effectively eliminates the window of vulnerability.”
For healthcare providers, this is a game-changing development. FHE enables the processing of electronic health records, lab results, and even medical images without exposing raw data to potential attackers. This not only keeps data secure but also facilitates secure data sharing among medical organisations, paving the way for collaborative research and treatment plans without risking patient privacy.
Michael was particularly enthusiastic about the potential for FHE to enhance patient trust. “When patients know their information is secure, they’re more willing to engage with their healthcare providers. This trust is crucial for better healthcare outcomes. We’re talking about a system where patients can rest assured their data is safe, and providers can make informed decisions without the fear of data breaches.”
However, implementing FHE on a large scale isn’t without its challenges. Michael acknowledged the substantial computational power required and the fact that the technology is still in development. “We’re actively exploring ways to integrate FHE into our existing systems. It’s about finding that balance between efficiency and security, especially in a field where speed can be a matter of life and death.”
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of FHE are undeniable. The technology promises to not only protect sensitive medical information but also help healthcare organisations comply with stringent data protection regulations like GDPR. Michael emphasised the importance of staying informed and preparing for the eventual adoption of FHE. “It’s crucial for hospital leaders to monitor developments in FHE. Start assessing how it could fit into current systems, conduct pilots, and ensure staff are trained on its use and regulatory implications.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Michael’s message was clear: the healthcare sector cannot afford to stand still in the face of evolving cyber threats. Advanced encryption technologies like FHE represent a proactive step towards safeguarding patient data, fostering trust, and ultimately improving healthcare outcomes. For Michael and many others in the industry, the journey towards implementing these technologies is just beginning, but the potential rewards are well worth the effort.
By Fallon Foss