The Cyber Risk Manager’s Dilemma: Automate the Past or Transform the Future?
Post Summary
The dilemma is whether to automate outdated risk processes or embrace transformation to align with future-focused strategies and technologies.
Transformation ensures organizations can address emerging threats, leverage advanced tools, and align risk management with business goals for resilience and growth.
Automation streamlines repetitive tasks, improves efficiency, and provides real-time insights, but it must be paired with strategic transformation to remain effective.
Challenges include resistance to change, integrating new technologies, and balancing automation with strategic innovation.
It enhances decision-making, improves resilience, and positions risk management as a driver of innovation and competitive advantage.
Key tools include AI, predictive analytics, and real-time monitoring, while strategies focus on collaboration, cultural change, and aligning risk with organizational objectives.
Healthcare cybersecurity is at a crossroads. Rising cyberattacks, outdated systems, and increasing costs are forcing organizations to choose between maintaining legacy tools or adopting modern risk management strategies. Here’s what you need to know:
- Data breaches cost $11M on average per incident in 2023, up 50% in three years.
- 90% of healthcare organizations faced cyberattacks in 2024, with 70% disrupting patient care.
- Legacy systems, still used by 73% of providers, expose vulnerabilities that modern threats exploit.
- Ransomware costs reached $1.3B in 2023, yet 37% of organizations lack a response plan.
- Modern risk management, leveraging AI and advanced frameworks, reduces breach costs by up to 33%.
The choice is clear: sticking with outdated systems risks patient safety, compliance, and financial stability. Modernizing cybersecurity isn’t just an upgrade - it’s a necessity to ensure secure, efficient care delivery.
Healthcare Cybersecurity: From Digital Risk to AI Governance with Ed Gaudet
Problems with Legacy Automation Systems
Relying on outdated automation systems creates a tough challenge for cyber risk managers. These systems don't just compromise data security - they can also disrupt patient care and harm operational efficiency.
In the U.S., healthcare organizations are discovering that legacy cybersecurity systems, once reliable, now create more problems than solutions. Built for simpler times, these systems aren't equipped to handle today's advanced threats or meet the complex regulatory demands of modern healthcare.
"Legacy systems, once adequate, are now active risks."
Shockingly, nearly two-thirds of companies today still depend on applications that are no longer supported. This reliance on outdated technology leaves sensitive patient data increasingly exposed to cyberattacks.
Missing Threats and Prevention Failures
Legacy systems, designed for an era with fewer cyber threats, struggle to keep up with modern challenges. Take the WannaCry attack as an example - it disrupted hundreds of thousands of devices running outdated systems like Windows XP. With over 400 vulnerabilities identified annually in such software, these systems simply can't keep pace with evolving threats [2]. Traditional Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools are also phasing out support for older software, leaving dangerous gaps in security [2].
Another critical issue is poor threat detection. Many legacy systems, often undocumented or "inherited", lack visibility, making it easier for attackers to exploit networks [1]. When these outdated systems fail to integrate with modern security tools, the risks multiply.
Encryption, a cornerstone of cybersecurity, is another area where legacy systems fall short. Many still use outdated methods like DES and 3DES instead of the more secure AES-256 standard, further exposing them to attacks [2].
These technical deficiencies don't just pose security risks - they also disrupt daily healthcare operations and complicate compliance efforts.
Workflow and Compliance Issues
Outdated automation systems wreak havoc on both operations and regulatory compliance. For instance, clunky user interfaces force clinicians to spend up to 45% of their day on administrative tasks instead of patient care [3]. This inefficiency contributes to physician burnout, with over half of burnout cases linked to administrative burdens [3]. Managing electronic health records (EHRs) becomes even more challenging when systems fail to communicate effectively.
"We face daily hurdles managing patient care because the systems do not communicate with each other." – John Smith, IT manager at a hospital in Ohio [4]
Compliance is another major headache. Many legacy systems lack the modern features needed to meet regulations like HIPAA, GDPR, and the Cures Act [3]. Without tools like robust audit logging, role-based access control, or data portability, healthcare providers risk violating these mandates - and facing hefty fines. Additionally, outdated EHRs often force staff to rely on redundant, paper-based processes [3]. Weak access controls, such as the absence of multi-factor authentication, make it harder to prevent insider misuse, which accounts for 48% of healthcare data breaches [4].
The Price of Staying Behind
The costs of sticking with legacy systems go beyond security risks - they're also a financial drain. Hospitals spend up to 75% of their IT budgets just maintaining these outdated systems [3], leaving little room for upgrades or innovation. For perspective, the U.S. government allocates more than 75% of its $100 billion annual IT budget to maintaining legacy technology [5].
The financial toll doesn't stop there. In 2013, outdated communication systems caused an $8.3 billion annual loss in clinician productivity in the U.S. [4]. And when these systems fail, the consequences can be catastrophic. The Equifax breach, which affected 143 million people and cost $1.4 billion, is a stark reminder of the risks tied to aging technology [2].
Healthcare organizations are particularly vulnerable. A single breach involving protected health information now costs an average of $10.93 million [3]. The DemandScience breach, which exposed data for over 122 million individuals due to an abandoned system, underscores the dangers of leaving outdated technology unsecured [1].
The rise in ransomware attacks further highlights the risks. Between 2021 and 2024, such attacks on hospitals surged by more than 90%, with healthcare becoming the most targeted industry. Legacy IT systems are often the entry point for these attacks, as they present an easy target for cybercriminals [3][1].
"We understand the complexity of shifting to cloud-based or modern systems, but it is necessary for future growth." – Manu Tandon, CIO at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center [4]
Beyond the financial and operational costs, the reputational damage from breaches can be devastating. With over 60% of U.S. hospitals still running at least one critical application on outdated software lacking cloud-readiness, modern APIs, or FHIR-based interoperability [3], the reliance on legacy systems is increasingly seen as a glaring oversight. The mounting risks and expenses make it clear: sticking with legacy automation systems is no longer sustainable. Modernization isn't just a choice - it's a requirement.
Modern Methods for Future-Ready Cybersecurity
Healthcare organizations can no longer depend on outdated security measures. Modern cybersecurity strategies not only provide proactive protection but also align seamlessly with patient safety priorities and regulatory demands. These advanced approaches help prevent incidents, ensuring clinical operations run smoothly without interruptions.
Future-ready cybersecurity reshapes risk management by focusing on adaptable defense systems that evolve with new threats. Below, we explore the essential elements of a forward-thinking cybersecurity strategy, including advanced frameworks, AI-driven tools, and aligning security with business objectives.
Using Advanced Frameworks and Standards
The NIST Cybersecurity Framework has gained traction as a crucial guide for healthcare organizations. It helps entities of all sizes manage and reduce cybersecurity risks while safeguarding sensitive networks and data [7]. Unlike one-size-fits-all methods, NIST addresses the unique challenges of protecting patient information and medical devices.
Healthcare systems are prime targets for cybercriminals due to their reliance on technology and the high value of their data [8]. Stolen health records can fetch up to 10 times more than stolen credit card details on the dark web. On average, the cost of addressing a breach in healthcare is $408 per stolen record, compared to $148 for non-health records [6].
Modern frameworks emphasize integrating cybersecurity into existing risk management, governance, and business-continuity processes [6]. Prioritizing a safety-first approach ensures that security measures not only protect data but also support uninterrupted patient care.
The WannaCry ransomware attack in May 2017 highlighted the vulnerabilities in healthcare. The attack disrupted Britain’s National Health Service, affecting systems in 150 countries, diverting ambulances, and canceling surgeries [6]. In contrast, U.S. hospitals faced less severe consequences. John Riggi, Senior Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk at the American Hospital Association, remarked:
"The impact of Wannacry on American hospitals and health systems was far less serious, which speaks to the tremendous efforts the field has made to improve cybersecurity and build incident-response capabilities." [6]
AI-Powered Risk Management Solutions
Artificial intelligence is redefining healthcare cybersecurity by shifting the focus from reactive to proactive threat management. AI can analyze massive datasets, detect subtle anomalies, and reduce response times - capabilities that go beyond traditional tools. This is particularly crucial in healthcare, where system downtime can directly impact patient safety [9].
By continuously analyzing vulnerabilities, AI enables organizations to address risks before they escalate into breaches [9]. Automating repetitive tasks also frees up healthcare professionals to concentrate on patient-focused activities [9].
Platforms like Censinet RiskOps™ demonstrate how AI can transform risk management. This system streamlines cyber risk mitigation with features like its Cybersecurity Data Room™ and Digital Risk Catalog™, which includes over 40,000 risk-assessed vendors and products. It automates workflows, provides real-time breach alerts, and manages risks across the entire lifecycle.
Censinet AITM further simplifies security assessments by automating tasks such as summarizing vendor evidence and identifying integration details. This blend of automation and human oversight boosts efficiency without compromising critical decision-making.
Connecting Cybersecurity with Business Goals
Modern cybersecurity isn’t just about technology - it’s about aligning with business priorities. With 92% of healthcare organizations experiencing at least one cyberattack in 2024, cybersecurity has become a critical business function, not just a technical concern [12][11].
Investing in security measures that go beyond compliance helps protect patient data, maintain trust, and support long-term success [11]. Advanced infrastructure and automation not only mitigate risks but also improve clinical workflows and ensure business continuity [12].
Efficiency is another key benefit. About 74% of organizations outsource some aspect of their security operations, such as training or managed services, highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity expertise [12]. A tailored hybrid or multicloud approach balances flexibility, security, and cost-effectiveness. Integrating platforms and systems is essential to maintaining both security and operational efficiency in complex healthcare environments [12].
Treating cybersecurity as a critical business risk ensures it receives executive attention and resources. As DNV emphasizes:
"Cybersecurity is an integral part of modern healthcare. As technology continues to evolve, so too will cyber risks. However, with proactive risk management and a commitment to patient safety and privacy, healthcare organizations can navigate this challenging landscape and continue to provide high-quality, life-saving care." [10]
Legacy Automation vs. Modern Risk Management
Healthcare organizations face a critical decision: stick with outdated legacy systems or embrace proactive modern risk management. This choice has far-reaching effects on patient safety, operational efficiency, and financial health. Here's a closer look at how these two approaches differ and what’s at stake.
Legacy automation systems represent an older, reactive approach to cybersecurity in healthcare. They often operate in isolation, struggle to keep up with evolving threats, and fail to meet the demands of today’s interconnected environments. The numbers tell a worrying story: 70% of data breaches occur in organizations still relying on legacy systems [14]. On top of that, the average cost of a data breach has climbed to $4.88 million [14].
Modern risk management, on the other hand, takes a proactive approach. It leverages AI-powered analytics, real-time threat detection, and seamless system integration. Organizations using AI and automation in their security operations report significantly lower breach costs - $3.84 million versus $5.72 million for those without these technologies [17].
But the impact goes beyond just dollars and cents. Legacy systems also drag down day-to-day operations. 83% of healthcare IT teams report disruptions caused by outdated systems [14], and organizations relying on these tools see a 25% drop in efficiency compared to those using AI-based solutions [14]. The table below highlights key operational differences between these two approaches:
| Factor | Traditional Legacy Automation | Modern Risk Management |
|---|---|---|
| Threat Detection | Reactive, often missing up to 95% of activity after 20 minutes of monitoring [15] | Proactive, AI-driven detection with real-time network analysis [15] |
| System Integration | Isolated systems requiring specialized middleware [14] | Seamless platform integration with collaborative threat intelligence [16] |
| Scalability | Limited ability to handle increasing demands | Built to scale with growing healthcare needs |
| Compliance Management | Struggles with evolving standards like HIPAA [5] | Advanced frameworks ensure up-to-date compliance |
| Cost Efficiency | Up to 80% of IT budgets spent on maintenance; many spend over $2 million annually [14] | Automation reduces costs and optimizes resources |
| Response Time | Slower responses with limited network visibility [13] | Faster, automated responses with full network insight |
| Staff Efficiency | Requires specialized knowledge, disrupting daily workflows | Frees skilled staff for more strategic tasks [17] |
The financial burden of maintaining legacy systems is staggering. For example, the US government allocates more than 75% of its $100 billion annual IT budget to keeping these outdated systems running [5]. Healthcare organizations face similar challenges, with 51% of CFOs citing data breaches as a top risk for 2024 [5].
Legacy systems also pose security risks due to their inability to receive timely updates or patches [13]. Medical devices, in particular, are a weak link. Axel Wirth, Chief Security Strategist at Medcrypt, highlights this issue:
"Although any networked medical device could be compromised by an attacker, legacy devices elevate the risks resulting from two categories of weaknesses a) by exposing vulnerabilities that can no longer be patched (for example in an end-of-life commercial operating system), and b) through poor design decisions that were made in times of lower security awareness and regulatory requirements that, unfortunately, can not be mitigated due to the device's end of support." [14]
Modern risk management tackles these vulnerabilities head-on. By aligning cybersecurity with business objectives, it creates security operations that are not only scalable but also geared to support patient care. As Manu Tandon, CIO at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, puts it:
"We understand the complexity of shifting to cloud-based or modern systems, but it is necessary for future growth." [4]
Choosing modern risk management over legacy automation doesn’t just address today’s challenges - it positions healthcare organizations to safeguard patient data and maintain operational efficiency in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
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How to Move to Modern Cybersecurity Practices
Modernizing cybersecurity calls for a strategic and timely approach to address current weaknesses while preparing for future threats.
Assessing Current Security Gaps
Start by conducting a detailed review to identify vulnerabilities. Studies show that many healthcare organizations tend to respond to cyber risks only after incidents occur, rather than taking proactive measures [19]. For instance, the Healthcare Cybersecurity Benchmarking Study, which analyzed 69 healthcare and payer organizations between September and December 2024, found that supply chain risk management and asset management had some of the lowest adoption rates, averaging just 50% coverage [19].
To improve cybersecurity practices, organizations should focus on key areas like addressing known vulnerabilities, implementing email security measures, adopting multi-factor authentication, providing basic cybersecurity training, and using strong encryption methods [18]. Additionally, it’s important to evaluate how well an organization can manage risks tied to third-party products and services [18]. Effective asset management is also essential - this includes setting up processes to quickly identify and mitigate threats in vendor-supplied assets, ensuring endpoints can detect relevant threats, and isolating critical assets within dedicated network segments [18]. Another priority is to establish robust incident response capabilities, such as collecting security log data and regularly updating and testing incident response plans. Lastly, secure configuration management practices that define and maintain secure device settings provide a stable foundation for all other security measures [18]. These strategies create a strong base for scalable third-party risk management.
Setting Up Scalable Third-Party Risk Management
Managing third-party risks with outdated tools like spreadsheets and email is inefficient and error-prone. To build a scalable third-party risk management (TPRM) program, healthcare organizations need modern solutions that centralize data, streamline processes, and support informed decision-making. Alarmingly, research shows that 40% of vendor contracts are finalized without a security risk assessment, leaving organizations vulnerable [21].
Use visual dashboards to secure executive buy-in by clearly communicating third-party risks [21]. Review and document existing policies, tools, and third-party relationships that handle protected health information (PHI) [21]. Centralizing risk data and standardizing assessment templates can further improve efficiency [21].
Platforms like Censinet RiskOps™ are specifically designed for healthcare organizations to tackle these challenges. Key features include 1‑Click Sharing, Continuous Risk Visibility, a Digital Risk Catalog™, Workflow Automation, and Active Portfolio Management [20]. These tools allow vendors to complete standardized questionnaires once and share their responses with multiple customers, reducing administrative overhead. The Cybersecurity Data Room™ offers up-to-date risk data and longitudinal records, enabling informed decision-making. Automated risk scoring and corrective action plans (CAPs) help prioritize responses based on actual risk levels rather than guesswork [20]. Additional features such as delta-based reassessments, breach and ransomware alerts, and risk tiering with reassessment scheduling ensure that risk management processes remain agile [20]. BluePrint Protect further supports this by operationalizing NIST and HITRUST frameworks through a centralized, real-time dashboard for managing enterprise risks [21]. These advancements are crucial for reshaping healthcare cybersecurity.
Building Better Team Collaboration
Technical upgrades alone aren’t enough - success also hinges on fostering collaboration across teams. Cybersecurity in healthcare requires cooperation between IT, clinicians, and leadership. Security decisions often have ripple effects on clinical workflows, patient care, and overall operations. Effective collaboration means engaging IT, clinical, and administrative teams to safeguard patient data and digital infrastructure [22]. Moving beyond the idea that cybersecurity is solely IT’s responsibility, organizations must promote shared accountability that involves every user.
To achieve this, involve clinicians in security decisions to ensure that solutions integrate seamlessly with clinical workflows without interrupting patient care [22]. Providing specialized, role-specific training helps clinical staff stay aware of evolving cybersecurity threats. Meanwhile, IT teams should actively assess the security risks of new devices and technologies [22].
Establish clear reporting protocols for suspicious activity and use easy-to-navigate tools to encourage swift reporting, fostering a culture of shared responsibility [24][23]. Strong leadership is key - leaders should routinely evaluate risks linked to new digital technologies, incorporate cybersecurity into strategic planning, develop comprehensive incident response plans, and conduct tabletop exercises to test team coordination [26]. Industry guidelines emphasize that cybersecurity in healthcare is a collective effort [25]. This collaborative approach is essential for advancing healthcare cybersecurity.
Conclusion: Picking the Right Approach for Your Organization
Healthcare organizations face the challenge of balancing legacy systems with the pressing need for stronger cybersecurity. With 83% of IT teams reporting that outdated systems disrupt daily operations [27] and ransomware attacks skyrocketing over 90% from 2021 to 2024 [28], the urgency for modernization has never been clearer.
The financial aspect is significant too, with the average cost of upgrading legacy technology reaching $2.9 million in 2023 [27]. Melissa Rappl, CISO at Children's Nebraska, highlights the stakes:
"When we talk about leveraging AI and all these amazing tools, the cybercriminals are doing the same thing. It's an arms race, and we need to stay a step ahead." [27]
Modernization efforts demand a thoughtful evaluation of each legacy system, weighing security vulnerabilities, clinical importance, and financial considerations. For critical systems that can't be replaced immediately, interim solutions like network and micro-segmentation can help mitigate risks [27]. These measures ensure the continuity of patient care while paving the way for long-term security.
The importance of integrating security into the core design of systems is echoed by Atif Chaughtai of Red Hat:
"In the past, software engineers focused on functionality, and security was an afterthought. Now, there's an understanding that security needs to be baked in." [27]
His observation underscores the shift toward making security a foundational element of system development, aligning with broader goals of resilience and efficiency.
For healthcare organizations, modernization isn't a question of "if" but rather "how" - and how quickly. By treating it as a strategic opportunity, they can build systems that are not only more secure but also better equipped to deliver continuous, high-quality patient care.
FAQs
What are the risks of continuing to use outdated automation systems in healthcare cybersecurity?
The Risks of Outdated Automation Systems in Healthcare Cybersecurity
Relying on outdated automation systems in healthcare cybersecurity can leave organizations exposed to a growing array of cyber threats. These older systems often lack the defenses needed to counter modern attacks, making them easy targets for data breaches, ransomware, and other malicious activities. Beyond the security risks, maintaining these systems can be a drain on resources, requiring constant updates and patches to address known weaknesses.
Another major concern is compliance. Legacy systems often fall short when it comes to meeting current security standards and regulations, which could result in compliance violations and steep penalties. Additionally, these systems can disrupt operations by failing to integrate smoothly with newer technologies or by lacking the scalability required to manage increasing data loads. Upgrading to advanced, modern solutions is a critical step to reduce these risks and build a stronger, more secure cybersecurity framework.
How can AI and advanced frameworks help healthcare organizations lower the costs and risks of data breaches?
AI and modern frameworks are transforming how healthcare organizations handle data security, offering tools for early detection, quick response times, and continuous monitoring. By spotting threats promptly and containing breaches, these technologies help minimize operational disruptions and can save organizations millions of dollars per incident.
Through automation of routine security tasks and customized defenses for specific vulnerabilities, AI ensures resources are used efficiently while reinforcing cybersecurity. These advancements also support compliance with healthcare regulations, helping to avoid penalties, protect reputations, and maintain a stronger, more secure IT infrastructure.
How can healthcare organizations effectively move from outdated systems to modern cybersecurity practices?
To make a smooth shift, healthcare organizations need to start by assessing their current systems to pinpoint weaknesses and identify outdated technologies. From there, it’s crucial to develop a well-thought-out plan focused on replacing older systems with modern, secure alternatives, all while keeping operational disruptions to a minimum.
Some important steps to consider include adopting multi-factor authentication, upgrading to cutting-edge security tools, and providing comprehensive cybersecurity training for all staff members. Systems should be regularly updated, threats continuously monitored, and cybersecurity measures aligned with regulatory standards to ensure compliance and safeguard sensitive patient information. Taking a proactive and strategic approach is key to navigating the specific challenges of healthcare IT systems.
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Key Points:
What is the cyber risk manager's dilemma?
- Definition: The dilemma revolves around whether to automate existing, outdated risk processes or to embrace a transformative approach that aligns with future-focused strategies and technologies.
- Impact: Choosing automation alone may perpetuate inefficiencies, while transformation enables organizations to address emerging threats and innovate.
Why is transformation critical for cyber risk management?
- Emerging Threats: Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, requiring proactive and adaptive strategies.
- Strategic Alignment: Transformation ensures risk management supports business goals and drives innovation.
- Resilience: Builds the organization’s ability to adapt to disruptions and maintain operations.
What role does automation play in cyber risk management?
- Efficiency: Automation streamlines repetitive tasks, such as compliance checks and reporting.
- Real-Time Insights: Provides up-to-date data for faster decision-making.
- Limitations: Automation alone cannot address the need for strategic innovation and cultural change.
What challenges do cyber risk managers face in transforming risk programs?
- Resistance to Change: Employees may be hesitant to adopt new processes and technologies.
- Technology Integration: Implementing and aligning new tools with existing systems can be complex.
- Balancing Priorities: Ensuring automation complements, rather than replaces, strategic transformation.
How does transforming risk management benefit organizations?
- Enhanced Decision-Making: Provides actionable insights for leadership.
- Improved Resilience: Strengthens the organization’s ability to withstand disruptions.
- Innovation and Growth: Positions risk management as a driver of competitive advantage.
What tools and strategies enable risk transformation?
- AI and Predictive Analytics: Enhance risk identification and forecasting.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Identify and address risks as they emerge.
- Collaboration: Foster cross-departmental teamwork to align risk management with organizational goals.
- Cultural Change: Build a proactive risk culture that embraces innovation.
