Journal of Modern Medical

In the digital age, health information systems are considered one of the critical infrastructures for delivering healthcare services and preserving patient data [1]. However, the growing number of cyberattacks on these systems poses a serious threat to information security and patient privacy. Failure to implement appropriate countermeasures can lead to the exposure of sensitive patient data, disruption of healthcare services, and significant financial losses for healthcare institutions [2]. This letter not only reviews real-world cyberattacks but also provides a comparative analysis of major cybersecurity prevention models, with particular attention to their practical applicability in developing countries such as Iran. Real-World Examples of Cyberattacks in Healthcare Systems
According to security reports, ransomware attacks, breaches of patient databases, and phishing campaigns have caused substantial damage to healthcare centers in recent years:
Ransomware Attack on Hospital Systems: In 2017, the WannaCry cyberattack caused widespread disruption across the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), preventing doctors from accessing patient records and resulting in the cancellation of thousands of appointments [3].
Patient Database Breach in the U.S.: In 2021, hackers accessed the data of over 3.5 million patients at a major healthcare center, leaking sensitive information including medical records and financial data [2].
Phishing Attacks on Healthcare Institutions: In recent years, phishing campaigns targeting healthcare staff have led to the exposure of critical patient information and the infiltration of malware into medical networks [4].
These examples demonstrate that neglecting cybersecurity can have severe consequences for the healthcare sector. Therefore, evaluating prevention models is essential. Comparison of Cyberattack Prevention Models To reduce the vulnerability of health information systems, the following models are recommended: Implementation of Multi-Layered Security Systems: Utilizing smart firewalls, data encryption, and intrusion detection systems (IDS) helps identify and prevent attacks. However, their high implementation and maintenance costs, along with infrastructure requirements, may limit their feasibility in many developing healthcare systems [5]. In contrast, staff training and awareness programs aim to reduce human error by educating employees about phishing attacks and secure behaviors. Compared with purely technical solutions, this model is more cost-effective and highly feasible in developing countries, including Iran, where financial and technical resources may be limited [6]. Active monitoring using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms enables real-time detection and rapid response to cyberattacks. Although highly effective in large and well-resourced healthcare organizations, the need for advanced technical expertise and investment restricts its immediate applicability in low-resource settings [2]. Regular data backup and secure storage represent one of the most fundamental yet effective prevention strategies, particularly in mitigating the impact of ransomware attacks. Due to its relatively low cost and ease of implementation, this model is among the most practical options for healthcare institutions in developing countries [4]. Finally, penetration testing and periodic security assessments help identify system vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by attackers. When implemented selectively and periodically, this approach can effectively bridge technical and managerial perspectives on cybersecurity [6]. Implementation Challenges and Improvement Strategies Challenges: