Human Error: A Leading Cause of Healthcare Cybersecurity Breaches

In the healthcare sector, human error remains a significant contributor to cybersecurity breaches, often leading to the exposure of sensitive patient information. Understanding these errors is crucial for healthcare organizations aiming to bolster their security measures.

The Prevalence of Human Error in Data BreachesHuman errors, such as incorrect delivery of information and improper data handling, account for a substantial portion of healthcare data breaches. A 2022 report indicated that human error and misuse were involved in 82% of data breaches across various industries.¹ This underscores the significant role human factors play in cybersecurity incidents, including those in healthcare. Additionally, the World Economic Forum found that 95% of cybersecurity incidents are due to human error, highlighting the critical need for comprehensive training and strong security protocols to mitigate such risks.²

Recent Examples of Human Error Leading to Breaches

• DC Health Link Data Breach: In March 2023, DC Health Link experience a data breach affecting over 56,000 individuals, including members of Congress and their families. The breach was attributed to a cloud server misconfiguration, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data. This incident highlights how configuration errors can lead to significant security lapses.³
• Confidant Health Data Exposure: In August 2024, Confidant Health inadvertently exposed 5.3 terabytes of sensitive data, including personal medical records and therapy session recordings, due to an unsecured database. The lack of proper security measures resulted in highly personal information being publicly accessible, emphasizing the critical need for strong data protection protocols.⁴

Mitigating Human Error in Healthcare Cybersecurity

To reduce the risk of breaches caused by human error, healthcare organizations should consider the following strategies:

• Comprehensive Training: Regular and thorough training programs can equip staff with the knowledge to handle data securely and recognize potential security threats.
• Implementing Robust Security Protocols: Establishing and enforcing strict security measures, such as multi-factor authentication and regular audits, can help prevent unauthorized access and data mishandling.
• Regular Penetration Testing and Remediation Management: Conducting frequent penetration tests can identify vulnerabilities, while effective remediation management ensures that identified issues are promptly addressed, strengthening the organization’s overall security posture.

By focusing on these areas, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the likelihood of breaches resulting from human error, thereby protecting patient information, and maintaining trust.
¹https://www.iansresearch.com/portal/content-aggregator/82-of-2021-data-breaches-involved-human-error-misuse
²https://cybernews.com/editorial/world-economic-forum-finds-that-95-of-cybersecurity-incidents-occur-due-to-human-error/
³https://www.hipaajournal.com/dc-health-link-data-breach-caused-by-human-error/
⁴https://www.wired.com/story/confidant-health-therapy-records-database-exposure/