While growth in technology is definitely good for diabetes, there are certain downfalls. With the rapid growth in new high-tech devices comes the potential for hacking.
Last week, the FDA issued a warning and Medtronic recalled certain MiniMed insulin pumps due to the potential of being hacked. There are 4,000 patients who could potentially be affected.
Hacking threat
The cybersecurity threat is that a hacker could potentially connect to a person’s pump and change the settings to deliver too much or too little insulin, causing life-threatening complications.
Insulin pumps are a way to maintain blood sugar levels without frequent injections. They administer insulin based on your blood sugar and device settings, by connecting via a wireless radio frequency to a continuous glucose monitor, blood glucose meter, remote control, and USB device.
Steps to remain secure
Medtronic is providing patients with newer pump models that are not vulnerable to hacking. In the meantime, here are steps you can take to remain safe:
- Pay close attention to your blood sugar levels.
- Make sure you know where your pump is at all times.
- Don’t leave your pump connected to a computer when not downloading information.
- Don’t share your pump’s serial number with anyone.
- Be aware of any notifications and alarms from your pump.
MiniMed models being recalled
- MiniMed 508 (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 511 (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 512/712 (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 515/715 (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 522/722 (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 522K/722K (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm 523/723 (Version 2.4A or lower)
- MiniMed Paradigm 523K/723K (Version 2.4A or lower)
- MiniMed Paradigm 712E (All versions)
- MiniMed Paradigm Veo 554CM/754CM (Version 2.7A or lower)
- MiniMed Paradigm Veo 554/754 (Version 2.6A or lower)
While no one has yet been affected by hacking, the potential is there. Contact Medtronic to receive a new insulin pump in place of the ones being recalled. If you experience hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis, contact your doctor immediately.
