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Cybersecurity In The Life Science Industry Statistics

Cybersecurity incidents in the life science industry are increasing, with a growing number of data breaches reported each year.

Highlights: Cybersecurity In The Life Science Industry Statistics

  • 34% of life science companies reported a security incident in 2020.
  • 42% of life science organizations cited their greatest vulnerability as human errors.
  • About 62% of healthcare organizations increased cybersecurity spending in 2020.
  • Life science companies experience an average of 6.5 security incidents annually.
  • 33% of Life Sciences organizations experienced a cyber security threat from a remote worker in 2020.
  • The risk of cyber attacks for the Life Science industry has amplified by 50% since 2017.
  • Roughly 88% of ransomware attacks in 2020 targeted the healthcare industry.
  • Only 20% of life sciences and health care companies have fully operational security centers.
  • 26% of life science institutions have encountered cyber-attacks through mobile devices.
  • 36% of Life Sciences companies surveyed have suffered financial loss due to data breaches and cyber attacks.
  • About 66% of healthcare delivery organizations experienced significant security incidents involving medical devices.
  • Almost 54% of Life sciences companies experienced disruptions due to a cyber security incident.
  • More than 90% of healthcare organizations reported a breach over the past three years, with the average cost of a data breach per record reaching $429.

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The Latest Cybersecurity In The Life Science Industry Statistics Explained

34% of life science companies reported a security incident in 2020.

The statistic ‘34% of life science companies reported a security incident in 2020’ indicates that a significant proportion of companies within the life science industry experienced security breaches or incidents within the specified year. This statistic suggests that cybersecurity issues are prevalent within the life science sector, highlighting potential vulnerabilities and risks faced by these companies. The frequency of security incidents underscores the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures and protocols to safeguard sensitive data, intellectual property, and maintain business continuity within the life science industry. This statistic serves as a warning sign for life science companies to prioritize cybersecurity efforts and invest in enhancing their security infrastructure to mitigate future risks.

42% of life science organizations cited their greatest vulnerability as human errors.

The statistic ‘42% of life science organizations cited their greatest vulnerability as human errors’ indicates that a significant portion of organizations in the life science sector perceive human errors to be a major risk factor that could potentially compromise their operations. Human errors can range from simple mistakes made during research or data entry to more critical errors in securing sensitive information or mishandling of experimental procedures. Recognizing human errors as a primary vulnerability is crucial for these organizations to implement proper training, quality control measures, and robust systems to minimize the chances of errors occurring and to mitigate their potential impact on the organization’s functioning and reputation.

About 62% of healthcare organizations increased cybersecurity spending in 2020.

The statistic “About 62% of healthcare organizations increased cybersecurity spending in 2020” indicates that a majority of healthcare organizations made a deliberate effort to allocate more resources towards enhancing their cybersecurity measures during the year 2020. This increase in spending reflects a growing recognition within the healthcare industry of the need to protect sensitive patient information and critical infrastructure from cyber threats and data breaches. The data suggests a proactive approach to addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities and indicates a shift towards prioritizing data security as a key component of operational resilience within healthcare organizations.

Life science companies experience an average of 6.5 security incidents annually.

The statistic “Life science companies experience an average of 6.5 security incidents annually” suggests that, on average, companies within the life science industry are facing a moderate level of security incidents throughout the year. This could indicate a potential vulnerability in the industry’s cybersecurity measures, potentially putting sensitive data, research, and intellectual property at risk. As organizations in the life science sector often deal with valuable and confidential information, these security incidents could have significant implications for the companies, including financial losses, reputational damage, and regulatory consequences. Therefore, it is crucial for these companies to enhance their cybersecurity protocols to better protect themselves against cyber threats.

33% of Life Sciences organizations experienced a cyber security threat from a remote worker in 2020.

The statistic “33% of Life Sciences organizations experienced a cyber security threat from a remote worker in 2020” indicates that a significant portion of companies in the Life Sciences industry encountered security issues originating from remote work arrangements. This finding highlights the vulnerability of these organizations to cyber threats when employees are working outside traditional office environments. The statistic suggests that proper measures for cybersecurity must be prioritized to mitigate risks associated with remote work, ensure data protection, and safeguard against potential breaches that could compromise sensitive information and disrupt operations within Life Sciences organizations.

The risk of cyber attacks for the Life Science industry has amplified by 50% since 2017.

The statistic that the risk of cyber attacks for the Life Science industry has amplified by 50% since 2017 suggests that the sector is facing a significantly increased threat of cyber security breaches compared to four years ago. This trend indicates a concerning vulnerability within the industry, potentially due to advances in technology that make it easier for hackers to exploit weaknesses in systems and networks. The 50% increase highlights the urgent need for the Life Science industry to prioritize and enhance its cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive data, protect intellectual property, and maintain critical operations in the face of growing cyber threats.

Roughly 88% of ransomware attacks in 2020 targeted the healthcare industry.

The statistic that roughly 88% of ransomware attacks in 2020 targeted the healthcare industry highlights the significant vulnerability of the healthcare sector to cyber threats. Ransomware attacks involve cybercriminals gaining unauthorized access to a system and then encrypting files, demanding a ransom payment in exchange for unlocking them. The healthcare industry is particularly susceptible to these attacks due to the sensitive and critical nature of the data they hold, such as patient records and medical information. These attacks can have severe consequences, affecting patient care, compromising sensitive data, and posing substantial financial and reputational risks. The high proportion of attacks targeting healthcare in 2020 underscores the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and increased vigilance within the industry to safeguard against such threats.

Only 20% of life sciences and health care companies have fully operational security centers.

The statistic that only 20% of life sciences and health care companies have fully operational security centers indicates a concerning lack of preparedness within the industry to effectively manage and mitigate security risks. Security centers play a critical role in safeguarding sensitive information and systems from cyber threats, ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. With the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks targeting the healthcare sector, the low percentage of companies with fully operational security centers suggests a significant gap in security measures and overall cybersecurity readiness. This finding underscores the urgent need for life sciences and health care organizations to prioritize and invest in enhancing their security capabilities to protect both their own operations and the sensitive data of patients and customers.

26% of life science institutions have encountered cyber-attacks through mobile devices.

This statistic indicates that a significant portion, specifically 26%, of life science institutions have experienced cyber-attacks originating from mobile devices. This suggest that these institutions are vulnerable to security breaches through mobile platforms, highlighting the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and intellectual property. The prevalence of cyber-attacks through mobile devices underscores the need for continued vigilance and investment in cybersecurity infrastructure within the life science sector to mitigate potential risks and safeguard valuable information.

36% of Life Sciences companies surveyed have suffered financial loss due to data breaches and cyber attacks.

The statistic stating that 36% of Life Sciences companies surveyed have experienced financial loss as a result of data breaches and cyber attacks highlights the significant impact of cybersecurity threats on this industry. This suggests that more than a third of companies within the Life Sciences sector have faced financial consequences, potentially including costs related to remediation efforts, legal fees, loss of revenue, and damage to their reputation. Such incidents can disrupt operations, compromise sensitive information, and erode trust with stakeholders. The statistic underscores the importance for Life Sciences companies to prioritize cybersecurity measures and invest in robust protections to safeguard their data and assets from evolving cyber threats.

About 66% of healthcare delivery organizations experienced significant security incidents involving medical devices.

This statistic indicates that approximately two-thirds of healthcare delivery organizations have encountered significant security incidents related to medical devices, highlighting a prevalent issue within the healthcare industry. Such security incidents can encompass a range of cybersecurity breaches, vulnerabilities, or malfunctions that jeopardize the integrity and confidentiality of patient data, as well as the safety and effectiveness of medical devices themselves. The high incidence of these incidents underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures and protocols to safeguard patient information, ensure uninterrupted healthcare delivery, and mitigate potential risks associated with interconnected medical devices in the increasingly digitized healthcare landscape.

Almost 54% of Life sciences companies experienced disruptions due to a cyber security incident.

The statistic “Almost 54% of Life sciences companies experienced disruptions due to a cyber security incident” indicates that a significant portion of companies operating in the Life sciences industry have faced disruptions as a result of cyber security breaches. This suggests that cyber security threats pose a notable risk to the industry, potentially impacting operations, data integrity, and overall business continuity. The high percentage of companies affected underscores the importance of implementing robust cyber security measures and protocols to mitigate these risks and protect sensitive information within the Life sciences sector.

More than 90% of healthcare organizations reported a breach over the past three years, with the average cost of a data breach per record reaching $429.

The statistic indicates that a high proportion of healthcare organizations, specifically over 90%, have experienced a data breach within the past three years. This highlights a significant vulnerability within the industry and emphasizes the pressing need for improved cybersecurity measures. Additionally, the average cost of a data breach per record is reported to be $429, underlining the financial impact of these breaches on healthcare organizations. This statistic underscores the importance of investing in robust data security systems and protocols to safeguard sensitive patient information and mitigate the potential financial repercussions of data breaches within the healthcare sector.

References

0. – https://www.www.statista.com

1. – https://www.primeglobalpeople.com

2. – https://www.www.forbes.com

3. – https://www.www2.deloitte.com

4. – https://www.www.helpnetsecurity.com

5. – https://www.www.spglobal.com

6. – https://www.www.pwc.com

7. – https://www.cybersecurityventures.com

8. – https://www.www.varonis.com

9. – https://www.www.cfo.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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