For the 615 million people across Africa who lack access to basic healthcare, telehealth has become more than a convenience, it’s a lifesaving bridge between patients in remote areas and medical professionals often located hundreds or even thousands of miles away.
But as virtual consultations grow, so does the volume of sensitive patient data they generate, exposing a new and urgent threat: cyberattacks.
“From health records and test results to treatment plans, this data is extremely valuable—and incredibly attractive to cybercriminals,” warns Allan Juma, cybersecurity engineer at ESET East Africa. “To protect the future of telehealth, providers must not only deploy advanced cybersecurity tools, but also invest in educating both patients and practitioners about digital safety.”
A Complex Web of Connectivity, and Vulnerability
Telehealth systems rarely operate in isolation. To deliver accurate, efficient care, they are often deeply integrated with Electronic Health Records (EHRs), patient management systems, hospital infrastructure, and third-party vendors.
While this interconnectedness boosts care delivery, it also creates a more complex, and fragile, cybersecurity landscape.
“One weak link in this chain, a compromised device, an insecure home network, or an outdated vendor system, can be exploited and lead to a major breach,” says Juma.
This is where a zero-trust security model becomes essential.
Zero Trust: The “Never Trust, Always Verify” Mantra
Unlike traditional security models that assume internal systems are safe, zero trust assumes that no user or device is inherently trustworthy.
Every access request, whether from a healthcare provider, an administrator, or a patient, is verified using stringent safeguards like multi-factor authentication and role-based access control.
“Imagine dividing your telehealth network into tightly guarded compartments,” Juma explains. “Even if one area is compromised, the intruder can’t freely move across the system. This reduces the potential damage from any breach.”
People: The Weakest (and Most Targeted) Link
While robust security architecture can help prevent technical breaches, human error remains a persistent risk. The trust-based nature of healthcare interactions makes both patients and professionals prime targets for phishing and social engineering attacks.
“Cybercriminals often disguise themselves as doctors or health institutions, sending fake emails or messages to trick users into clicking malicious links or sharing personal details,” Juma cautions. “In a telehealth environment, such disruptions can delay treatment, or worse, put lives at risk.”
Building a Culture of Digital Hygiene
The solution, Juma insists, is not only technical but also educational. Regular cybersecurity training for healthcare staff, and simplified safety guidelines for patients, can significantly reduce the risk of breaches. From recognising phishing attempts to securing personal devices, awareness is the first line of defense
Telehealth has opened the doors of healthcare access for millions across Africa. But to ensure this progress isn’t undone by cyber threats, providers must act now, securing systems, safeguarding data, and building digital trust.
Because in the digital age, saving lives also means protecting the networks that make care possible.
