How to protect genomic and research data in biotechnology companies

Protecting genomic and research data is essential for biotechnology companies, given the value and sensitivity of the information they handle. Implementing appropriate cybersecurity strategies not only protects intellectual property but also ensures the trust of patients, investors, suppliers, and collaborators.

The importance of cybersecurity in the biotechnology sector

Biotechnology laboratories and companies face unique cybersecurity challenges due to:

• Data sensitivity: Genetic and biomedical information is highly confidential and attractive to cybercriminals seeking to gain financial benefits by stealing or manipulating it.
• Complexity of systems: The interconnection of multiple devices and platforms increases the attack surface, making it easier for security breaches to occur
• Lack of specialized personnel: Many organizations lack cybersecurity experts, making it difficult to implement and maintain effective protection measures.

Main cyber threats for biotech companies

Biotechnology companies are attractive targets for various cyber threats, including:

Phishing attacks

These involve fraudulent emails impersonating legitimate identities to deceive employees into gaining access to sensitive systems or information.

Ransomware

This type of malware encrypts the organization's data, preventing access and demanding a financial ransom for its release.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks

These overload the company's servers, causing service disruptions and impacting the organization's operations.

Exploitation of security gaps

Cybercriminals take advantage of vulnerabilities in outdated or misconfigured systems to infiltrate and extract valuable information.

Strategies to protect genomic and research data

To mitigate the mentioned threats and ensure the security of data, the following measures are recommended:

Sensitive data encryption

Applying encryption techniques both in transit and at rest ensures that even if the information is intercepted, it cannot be interpreted without the appropriate keys.

Access control and multi-factor authentication

Establishing role-based access policies and using multi-factor authentication ensures that only authorized personnel can access critical information.

Network segmentation

Dividing the network into isolated segments limits lateral movement of potential intruders and protects critical systems from unauthorized access.

Continuous monitoring and intrusion detection

Implementing tools to monitor network activity in real-time allows for the quick identification and response to suspicious behavior.

Cybersecurity training

Training employees on secure practices and how to identify threats reduces the risk of human errors that could compromise security.

Regular backups and recovery plans

Performing regular backups of critical data and developing disaster recovery plans ensures business continuity in the event of incidents.

Emerging technologies in genomic data protection

The adoption of advanced technologies can strengthen data security in the biotechnology sector:

Blockchain for data integrity

Using blockchain enables secure and decentralized storage of genomic data, giving individuals control over who can access their information and ensuring its integrity.

Federated machine learning

This technique allows the analysis of distributed clinical data without centralizing it, preserving patient privacy and facilitating international research collaborations.

Compliance and regulations

It is essential for biotechnology companies to comply with current data protection regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Europe, which provides strict guidelines for handling sensitive information.

The recent investigation by the Spanish Data Protection Agency into the genetic analysis company 23andMe underscores the importance of adhering to these regulations to avoid fines and protect public trust.

The protection of genomic and research data in biotechnology is a complex challenge that requires a combination of technical measures, staff training, and regulatory compliance. Implementing robust cybersecurity strategies not only protects valuable information but also strengthens the company's reputation and trust.