In 2023, national governments reported 309 significant cybersecurity breaches in the health care sector, making it the most targeted critical sector, according to the European Commission.
Addressing these vulnerabilities is a top priority for Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, a former medical doctor, who has committed to implementing a new cybersecurity plan for the health sector within the first 100 days of her second term.
The plan includes establishing a European Cybersecurity Support Center specifically for hospitals and the broader health care sector under the EU’s cybersecurity agency, ENISA. This center will offer a range of tools and services, including an early warning system, the assessment of hospitals’ cybersecurity standards, information sharing on vulnerabilities being exploited by hackers, and guidance on incident response.
To support these efforts, ENISA will receive additional funding, although the precise allocation has yet to be determined, according to an EU official who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Funding and other aspects of the plan remain subject to ongoing discussions.
When asked about financial resources, Virkkunen stated, “Always more funding would be welcome,” emphasizing that the issue will be addressed in upcoming consultations with EU member states.
Additionally, the Commission aims to create a dedicated rapid response service for the health care sector, which will operate under the EU Cybersecurity Reserve. This initiative is linked to the Cyber Solidarity Act, another piece of EU legislation designed to enhance cyber defense capabilities across member states.













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