In this wireless networked world nothing is personal, not even your heart beat.Modern pacemakers and ICDs have wireless connectivity with the manufacturers.This is value added service for regular monitoring and solving any technical issues.
Hacking a device like pacemaker and ICD and instant deactivation or triggering a new event is a distinct possibility .It was shown in a fictional TV series “Home land” that prompted the ex American wise president Dick Cheny to switch off all wireless function in his ICD. Now ,the US homeland security cyber emergency response team has decided to probe the issue .
Perils of technology is taking us to new uncharted territories , while your SA AV node are at risk of being remote controlled !
Meanwhile Medtronic has clarified they have increased the security features and pacemaker /ICD hacking is not an issue to be worried . But the threat is genuine !
Reference
1. Frenger P Hacking medical devices a review – Biomed Sci Instrum. biomed 2013.2013;49:40-7
3.Fox news
Dr.S.Venkatesan MD 