Hardware Security and Challenges in Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices

Abstract

The growth of health information technology, especially through wearable and implantable medical devices, has transformed patient care by facilitating continuous health monitoring. Devices such as fitness trackers and pacemakers play a pivotal role in tracking vital signs and supporting proactive health management. Despite the substantial benefits of these technologies, they also pose significant security and privacy risks. Unauthorized access, data breaches, and device malfunctions are critical concerns, as these vulnerabilities can jeopardize patient safety. This chapter delves into the security challenges associated with wearable and implantable devices, focusing on threats like remote attacks, signal interference, and potential device compromise. The chapter concludes by exploring future directions for secure, reliable, and user-friendly medical devices to ensure patient safety in an increasingly interconnected healthcare landscape.