Strengthening Healthcare Security: How Swissbit’s iShield Key 2 Combats Cyber Threats with Unified Access
04/08/2025 by Jan Quack
In my latest blog article, I examine the healthcare sector more closely. What challenges does the sector face, particularly with regard to cybersecurity? What solutions are available, and what are their benefits? Finally, I share my conclusion.
Introduction
Cyberattacks on healthcare institutions are on the rise, threatening patient data, life-critical systems, and digital infrastructures worldwide. In 2024 alone, nearly 700 cyber incidents in the United States affected over 180 million individuals and their sensitive health data.
Even hospitals in Germany faced similar crises, with some incidents posing life-threatening consequences. The growing complexity of systems, the link between core IT and core “HealthIT” eco systems, where an attack to one ecosystem could impact the other eco system as well, the need for secure access, and regulatory pressure from global frameworks like HIPAA (USA), NIS2 (EU), and MHLW (Japan) call for robust, unified security solutions.
1. The Challenge: Complex Systems and Critical Access Points
Modern healthcare environments are highly fragmented. Multiple systems handle electronic health records (EHRs), physical access control, medical device settings, and staff workflows. Access needs range from emergency rooms and maternity wards to parking lots and operating theaters. Managing authentication for such diverse use cases is difficult—especially in compliance with varying international regulations.
Further complicating matters, phishing remains a significant threat. According to the 2024 Microsoft Cyber Digital Defense Report (Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2024) phishing attacks surged by 58%, resulting in an estimated financial impact of USD 3.5 billion in 2024.
2. The Solution: Swissbit iShield Key 2 – One Key for All Access
The Swissbit iShield Key 2 is a cutting-edge hardware authentication solution that addresses the pressing security needs of healthcare. It unifies physical and digital access in a single secure device, streamlining workflows and minimizing vulnerabilities.
Key Features
- Digital & Physical Access in One Device
Compatible with MIFARE, HID, and LEGIC access systems, the iShield Key 2 supports seamless integration in any healthcare setting—from building entry to secure portals.
- Certified and Future-Proof Security
Featuring a smart card chip with FIPS 140-3 Level 3 and CC EAL6+ certification, the device is built for maximum trust and compliance. Remote update capabilities ensure the device meets evolving cybersecurity requirements.
- Durability in Medical Environments
The iShield Key 2 is engineered for rugged use, remaining functional with gloves or disinfectants—perfect for high-demand medical scenarios.
3. The Benefits: Unified Authentication and Cost Savings
The implementation of the iShield Key 2 offers clear advantages for your organization or company, including enhanced security, streamlined operations, and improved efficiency.
- Unified Access
Healthcare professionals can access patient records, systems, and physical locations with a single tap—boosting efficiency and minimizing delays.
- Reduced Complexity and Costs
By consolidating digital and physical access into one device, the iShield Key 2 reduces device management efforts and lowers IT support costs.
- Compliance and Readiness for the Future
With regulatory alignment and FIDO passkey support, Swissbit’s hardware is ready for the passwordless future. According to the 2025 HYPR State of Passwordless Identity Assurance Report, hardware-based authentication is expected to become the gold standard by 2027.
Conclusion
The Swissbit iShield Key 2 is more than just a security token - it’s a critical enabler of secure, compliant, and efficient healthcare operations. As the attack surface expands and regulations tighten, healthcare providers must adopt reliable, integrated solutions that protect both people and data. The iShield Key 2 series positions healthcare companies and organizations to lead in this transition - ensuring they’re prepared for a passwordless future. And with Swissbit, you gain a trusted European partner ready to secure your digital transformation journey.
Would you like to consider your physical and digital access together?
We would be happy to show you how you can build a scalable security architecture with a hardware token without compromising productivity. Convince yourself of our expertise and just contact us!
By Jan Quack
