The data an EDR system collects empowers healthcare professionals to bolster cybersecurity efforts, safeguard patient data, and maintain the integrity of healthcare systems. Embracing these technologies as allies in the collective mission for a secure healthcare environment is pivotal in today's digital age.
What is EDR, and why does it matter in healthcare?
EDR stands for endpoint detection and response. It is a cybersecurity solution designed to protect the network by monitoring and responding to suspicious activities on individual devices or endpoints, such as computers, servers, and mobile devices.
In the healthcare sector, where patient records, sensitive medical data, and operational information are stored digitally, EDR plays a pivotal role in fortifying a healthcare organization’s defenses against cyber threats.
Related: How to implement endpoint detection and response (EDR)
Data collected by EDR
Here’s a breakdown of the data collected by EDR systems:
Process execution monitoring
EDR tracks the execution of processes on devices, providing insights into what programs are running, when they were initiated, and if any unauthorized or malicious software is attempting to operate.
File integrity tracking
Any changes made to files are meticulously recorded. This includes modifications, deletions, or new creations, helping to identify any unauthorized alterations to critical healthcare records or system files.
Network connection details
EDR logs information about network connections—IP addresses, ports, protocols—to identify potential threats like unauthorized access attempts or suspicious network behavior.
User activity logs
An EDR system keeps records of user actions such as logins, logouts, and any activities performed within the system, enabling the detection of unusual behavior that might signal a security breach.
Registry and system changes
EDR monitors alterations in system settings and registries, providing insights into any unauthorized changes that could compromise the security or functionality of the devices.
Behavioral anomaly detection
By establishing normal behavior patterns, EDR can flag deviations from these norms, alerting healthcare IT teams to potential security threats.
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Tshedimoso Makhene
