Document Type
10 minute oral
Start Date
6-3-2026 3:00 PM
Description
The digital world is rapidly evolving, and healthcare systems now depend heavily on data-driven and connected technologies. While these tools bring many benefits, they also increase exposure to data breaches and cyberattacks, raising concerns about privacy, security, and trust. Although earlier research has focused on technical and policy solutions for data protection, less attention has been paid to how major cyber incidents influence public attitudes. This study addresses that gap by examining how a major cyberattack relates to people’s views on data security and trust in digital health. We surveyed individuals about their personal cybersecurity practices and their opinions on the 2021 ransomware attack on Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE). The results indicate changes in concerns, trust, and expectations around digital health data, and provide insights for developing more trustworthy and resilient digital health systems.
Included in
The Ripple Effect: How the HSE Data Breach Shaped Public Opinion
The digital world is rapidly evolving, and healthcare systems now depend heavily on data-driven and connected technologies. While these tools bring many benefits, they also increase exposure to data breaches and cyberattacks, raising concerns about privacy, security, and trust. Although earlier research has focused on technical and policy solutions for data protection, less attention has been paid to how major cyber incidents influence public attitudes. This study addresses that gap by examining how a major cyberattack relates to people’s views on data security and trust in digital health. We surveyed individuals about their personal cybersecurity practices and their opinions on the 2021 ransomware attack on Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE). The results indicate changes in concerns, trust, and expectations around digital health data, and provide insights for developing more trustworthy and resilient digital health systems.