Researchers Warn of Insulin Pump Hacking Risk

Wireless access and low security features could make insulin pumps susceptible to hacking, according to new research.

Most insulin pumps are pre-programmed to display relevant information to the patient, deliver the appropriate dosage of insulin to the patient, and keep track of the time in between doses. They are usually relatively easy to use, and designed for convenience.

However, a case recently presented at the HealthSec 2012 USENIX Workshop on Health Security & Privacy found that cyber security experts were able to highlight a number of software vulnerabilities in the Insulet Omnipod that hackers could potentially exploit, MassDevice reported.

A team from MacAfee later demonstrated how it was possible to hack into a pump from a distance of 300 feet and trigger fatal doses of insulin.

While there have not been any recorded instances of hackers exploiting insulin pumps, it is nonetheless an issue that should be corrected since it has the potential to lead to serious health implications for pump users.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by an unsafe product, contact Sokolove Law for a free legal consultation and to find out if a product liability lawyer may be able to help you. For legal help, call (800) 581-6358.

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