Once scientists are able to develop practical quantum computers, the technology could quickly break the encryption methods protecting sensitive patient data.

If and when scientists are able to develop practical quantum computers, advanced computers that use quantum mechanics to process data, they predict the technology will be able to accomplish complex computing tasks exponentially better and faster than classical computers. These developments, once strictly theoretical, are potentially only a few years away from reality, and could set the stage for a new frontier of both innovation and security challenges.

Governments and organizations across all sectors are worried that a quantum computer could easily break traditional modes of encryption — the process of protecting data by scrambling it into random numbers — that underpin virtually all digital security today, from online banking to hospital networks.

As such, the race is on to implement what’s known as post-quantum cryptography, a new generation of encryption algorithms designed to withstand attacks from both classical and quantum computers, before cybercriminals can exploit vulnerable systems.

However, Forescout's research suggests that healthcare is running behind in preparing for this critical transition.

Researchers analyzed more than 2.5 million devices across more than 50 healthcare organizations and found that connected medical devices like infusion pumps and patient monitors are less prepared for post-quantum cryptography than traditional IT systems, such as computer workstations and servers.

Medical devices are notoriously difficult to update but are relied upon heavily for patient care. Although IT still accounts for 66% of connected devices in a given healthcare environment, vulnerable medical devices could pose a security threat if they remain unprepared for post-quantum cryptography migration, the report stated.

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