Abbott introduces new security updates for implanted cardiac devices

Abbott has announced that it will be introducing new updates for its implanted cardiac devices to offer more robust protection against unauthorised access.

The pacemaker firmware update will add new data encryption tools, operating system patches and the ability to disable network connectivity features, with devices such as the Accent SR RF, Accent MRI, Assurity, Assurity MRI, Accent DR RF, Anthem RF, Allure RF, Allure Quadra RF and Quadra Allure MP RF all set to be upgraded.

Abbott noted that no reports of unauthorised access to any patient's implanted device have been received, and that compromising the security of these devices would involve a highly complex process, with these updates released as part of ongoing efforts to continuously improve patient care.

Additionally, a new battery performance alert is being introduced for Abbott's implantable cardioverter defibrillators to provide physicians with earlier warning of premature battery depletion.

Robert Ford, executive vice-president for medical devices at Abbott, said the company is "working with others in the healthcare sector to ensure we're proactively addressing common topics to further advance the security of devices and systems".

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