Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (NASDAQ: CHKP), a pioneer and global leader of cyber security solutions, Check Point’s data-rich report highlights regional trends and real-world examples for the World Patient Safety Day 2025 this week.

“On World Patient Safety Day 2025, the focus must extend beyond clinical errors to the hidden risks of cyberattacks on healthcare,” says Kingsley Oseghale, Country Manager West Africa, Check Point Software Technologies.

According to Check Point Research, Africa has recorded an average of 3,575 weekly attacks per healthcare organisation in 2025 – an increase of 38% YoY. This was largely driven by accelerated rollouts of e-health systems and mobile patient services outpacing security training and infrastructure.

According to Oseghale, Nigeria’s emerging private healthcare sector is under threat.

“As a country, which is in desperate need of adequate healthcare services to cater to our growing population, we need to ensure our healthcare systems are adequately protected,” he says.

“Attacks are no longer about stolen data alone — they cause delayed surgeries, forced emergency diversions, and altered treatment plans, directly endangering patients,” he adds.

According to Health-ISAC 92% of healthcare organisations experienced at least one cyber incident, exposing more than 276 million patient records worldwide.

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Hospitals As Prime Targets of Attacks

Healthcare is now one of the top three most attacked industries globally. From the beginning of 2025 until the end of August, healthcare organisations worldwide experienced an average of 2,465 cyberattacks per week — a 17% increase year-on-year and significantly higher than the global average of 1,963 weekly attacks across all sectors, according to Check Point Research.

Latin America recorded the highest regional volume, with 4,539 weekly attacks per organisation (+63% YoY). This surge reflects the region’s rapid digitalisation of health services without matching investment in cybersecurity controls, leaving large numbers of public and private clinics vulnerable.

At the country level, the Netherlands emerged as the most targeted in the healthcare sector with 3,216 attacks per organisation (+31% YoY), reflecting its dense concentration of advanced hospitals and cross-border research projects. The United States recorded the sharpest YoY increase at 40%, underscoring how lucrative its healthcare data remains for extortion-focused groups. Sweden (2,618 +3%), Belgium (2,527 -4%), and Israel (2,206 flat) continue to face steady threats, while Canada (+25%) and Germany (+4%) are seeing renewed attacks on regional hospital networks. In contrast, the UK (-18%) and France (-21%) recorded declines due to increased investment in proactive cyber controls and coordinated public-sector initiatives.

“This surge stems from rapid digitisation, mixed legacy systems, and a shortage of cyber security staff, creating a perfect storm for attackers seeking high-value patient data and disruption leverage,” Oseghale.

AI: The Double-Edged Sword in Healthcare

Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare through predictive diagnostics, clinical decision support, and patient engagement apps but healthcare has always been a prime target for cybercriminals because of its vast stores of sensitive data, complex IT environments with legacy systems, and steep regulatory penalties that make ransom demands lucrative.

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Artificial Intelligence is now amplifying this dynamic on both sides. Attackers are using AI tools to write malware without deep coding expertise, craft polished phishing emails, and create realistic deepfakes of healthcare leaders — making scams harder to detect and attacks faster and more scalable.

Generative AI can also poison training data for clinical algorithms, produce deepfake authorisations, or craft personalised lures from stolen patient data — amplifying the scale and precision of attacks. It has now become a situation of “AI against AI,” with attackers using AI to infiltrate systems and defenders trying to keep pace.

At the same time, AI has become an indispensable defensive tool. AI-powered systems can analyse network traffic and user behaviour in real time, automatically block ransomware and phishing attempts, strengthen encryption and access controls, prioritise vulnerability patches, and even predict weaknesses before exploitation. In the event of a breach, AI-powered response platforms can triage and contain threats quickly, reducing the average cost of a healthcare data breach to $7.4 million from $9.7 million last year according to IBM. By adopting a “converged cyber-AI” approach that integrates AI across the security stack, hospitals can proactively counter the dynamic and complex threat landscape while safeguarding patient data and maintaining operational integrity.

Check Point Research recently blocked 7,000+ phishing emails impersonating Zocdoc and other providers across 300 organisations.

From Data Breach to Bedside Harm

Connected medical devices (IoMT) — infusion pumps, wireless heart monitors, smart inhalers — are revolutionising care but are rarely secured to the same standard as hospital networks. The 2017 WannaCry ransomware outbreak infected 1,200 diagnostic devices across the NHS, forcing five emergency departments to close and cancelling 19,000 appointments. This means cybercrime can now harm patients directly, not just their records.

Medical identity theft victims spend on average 210 hours and $2,500 reclaiming their identities according to Health-ISAC. Stolen health data is repackaged into “identity kits” for fraud, fake prescriptions, or extortion, undermining patient trust and overloading staff with remediation. Hospitals risk regulatory fines, reputational damage, and operational disruption when data breaches cascade into direct patient harm.

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Cyber security for Patient Safety

Patient safety now depends on cyber security as much as clinical quality. Five key steps stand out:

1. Continuous Staff Education – Regular phishing and social-engineering training.
2. Full Asset Visibility – Map all cloud, IoT, and legacy tech to identify blind spots.
3. Zero Trust & Network Segmentation – Limit lateral movement and assume compromise.
4. Prevention-First, AI-Powered Security – Move beyond detection to blocking attacks before they execute.
5. Platform Consolidation – An integrated security architecture (such as Check Point Infinity) covers users, devices, and data end-to-end.

Combined with new healthcare cybersecurity safety guidelines for IoMT manufacturers and sector-wide intelligence sharing, these steps reduce risk and lighten the load on already stretched CISOs.

“Cyber security in healthcare is no longer just about protecting data — it’s about protecting lives. As connected devices, AI-driven apps, and vast patient datasets converge, the attack surface for harm grows exponentially. By embedding prevention-first, AI-powered security into every layer — from device design to app governance to data protection — we can ensure that innovation in healthcare translates into safer, more resilient care for every patient,” Oseghale concludes.”

The Delta State Government has announced plans to reduce the cost of dialysis treatment in state-owned hospitals from over ₦70,000 to ₦45,000, in a bid to ease the financial burden on patients battling kidney-related ailments.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, disclosed this on a Delta Television live programme, “Politics in Perspective”.

He explained that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has approved the procurement of eight new dialyzers for government hospitals across the state to support the initiative.

According to Onojaeme, the state’s recent investment in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scan machines will also curb the stress of residents travelling long distances within and outside the country for medical diagnosis.

He cautioned medical personnel against indulging in sharp practices, warning that erring staff would face severe sanctions.

The Commissioner further revealed that the governor has approved the renovation and overhaul of more than 150 Primary Health Centres (PHCs) spread across the three senatorial districts to enhance access to affordable healthcare.

He added that the state’s free maternal healthcare programme has already yielded positive results, reducing maternal mortality from 350 to 120 per 100,000 live births.

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To strengthen service delivery, Onojaeme stated that all government hospitals have been granted approval to utilise 100 percent of their Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to meet basic operational needs.

Presently, Delta boasts three tertiary hospitals, 65 general hospitals, and 441 PHCs, many of which are undergoing comprehensive remodelling.

On the contributory health scheme, the Commissioner noted that several reforms have been implemented, while medical staff who attempted to sabotage government’s efforts were sanctioned or demoted.

He also highlighted ongoing surveillance under the Drug Revolving Fund to prevent fake and adulterated drugs from entering government health facilities.

Onojaeme commended Governor Oborevwori’s recognition by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for being the first governor in the country to pay the Medical Residency Fund, alongside his numerous health sector projects.

He urged Deltans to embrace regular medical check-ups for early detection and prevention of serious ailments, reiterating that the Oborevwori administration is committed to making healthcare both accessible and affordable.

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The Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Delta State branch, Tuesday, expressed confidence that the future of healthcare delivery in the state remains bright under the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.

The Association, led by its Chairman, Dr. Israel Adaigho, stated this during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Asaba.

Dr. Adaigho lauded Governor Oborevwori’s led government for what he described as massive achievements and excellence in primary healthcare, the Contributory Health Scheme, improved maternal and child healthcare through the establishment of mobile clinics, and the strengthening of health institutions across the state.

He listed key strides to include; the establishment of the College of Health Technology, Ovrode; College of Medical Sciences, Southern Delta University, Ozoro; and the College of Nursing, Onicha-Uku, alongside the renovation of over 150 primary healthcare centres.

He further highlighted the provision of hospital equipment such as MRI machines and 25 units of 4D ultrasound scanners, as well as Delta’s pioneering payment of medical residency training funds ahead of the Federal Government.

Beyond the health sector, Dr. Adaigho praised the Governor for critical infrastructural projects such as the completion of the Ughelli–Asaba Road dualisation project, the construction of flyovers in Effurun and Warri, and the clearance of backlog pension payments for state and local government retirees.

While pledging the association’s continued partnership with government, he also drew attention to some challenges confronting health workers, including manpower shortages.

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In his response, Governor Oborevwori commended the NMA for its role in safeguarding quality healthcare and for the sacrifices made by doctors and medical workers who continue to serve in Nigeria despite the lure of better opportunities overseas.

He listed some of his administration’s recent interventions, including the procurement of eight dialysis machines, three each for Asaba Specialist Hospital and Central Hospital, Warri, and two for DELSUTH, Oghara as well as three MRI machines, one for each senatorial district of the state.

Re-emphasising the value of doctors serving at home, the Governor said: “It is better for our doctors to work in Nigeria and earn their respect than to go abroad and become care assistants.”

Oborevwori assured that his administration would look into the requests tabled by the association and reaffirmed his commitment to equipping Delta hospitals with medical facilities comparable to those in developed countries. He approved the release of a bus to the Association.

Nigerians React; Tears As Phyna’s Younger Sister Dies Days After She Was Hit By Dangote’s Truck

Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna, has died.

Ruth passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m., according to a statement released by Eko Solicitors & Advocates.

“With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing on to glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on this 31st Day of August, 2025, at about 06:30Hrs,” the statement read..

Phyna late sister

The family added that they are grieving and would appreciate being given a private moment to mourn Ruth.

“The funeral arrangement will be communicated to the public in due course,” the statement added.

Ruth had suffered a tragic accident just weeks earlier. She had her leg amputated after being hit by a Dangote Group-owned truck near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.

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Eyewitnesses reported that the heavy-duty truck smashed her leg before being halted by a bystander.

Ruth had graduated from Auchi Polytechnic barely six days before the accident occurred. Her unexpected passing has left her family and followers in despair.

Netizens Mourn Phyna’s Sister

star_entreprise_ said: “Her sister Phyna really fought for her It’s so painful. Sometimes death is kindness cos the pain was so much for her to bear. RIP.”

_hassanahh said: “This is beyond heartbreaking 💔. And what makes it worse is that it keeps happening over and over. Dangote trucks have claimed too many innocent lives in Nigeria, and yet nothing changes. Instead of accountability, we keep seeing underage, untrained drivers behind the wheel of heavy-duty trucks that should only be handled by professionals.

“The fact that the driver who killed this young woman was released by the police says everything about how the system shields the powerful while the ordinary citizen pays with their life. In a just country, the company would be investigated, the drivers held accountable, and the families compensated. But here, it’s silence, cover-ups, and another tragic headline.

“How many more people must die before this pattern is taken seriously? At some point, we must admit this is no longer misfortune—it’s negligence, and negligence kills.” annie.ifx said: “In a sane society, dangote would be facing serious charges. Their trucks have killed so many people over the years without any accountability.”

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luvley_doyin said: “Atleast content creators will rest nw 😭.”

@Tobbyakog said: “Will Dangote go free for this? Or nobody wants to talk?”

tito.nass said: “The fact that she even had to struggle in pains and death eventually took its toll… it’s well. May God comfort her family (omoooo the more I type the more pain I feel for phyna).”

dimx___ said: “What a pity, in a sane country class action lawsuit go dun wound Dangote, imagine people losing their lives everyday because of your multibillionaira business and there are no consequences or reparations.”

dat_urhobogirl said: “Una mini god can now rest. Always diverting attention and changing narrative if you don’t allow him to front it.

Now, he can rest and look for his next victim. Dear Ruth, the world does not deserve you😢😢😢😢watch over your children 🙏.”

yesbosschuks said; “Now those who didn’t let her get the immediate treatment she deserved, hope they will let her rest now. Sad country.”

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There’s nothing wrong with having a routine: a go-to breakfast, a skincare regimen, a weekly date night. But when it comes to sex, there are preferred time for the intimacy to increase where both partners enjoy the moment.

From genuine classics, like missionary and doggy style, to twists on tried-and-true techniques, like cowgirl’s helper, these sex positions have best time to enjoy them without any discomfort .

Sex experts shared their thoughts on why other time of having sex are more profitable and enjoyable than night.

Age may be a factor in our preferred sex schedules, too, sex therapist and neuroscience researcher Nan Wise said.

“As a rule, people become more like larks as they age. They like to go back to bed earlier and probably would be more interested in sex in the morning,” Wise, author of “Why Good Sex Matters,” told HuffPost. “Young people tend to be night owls and might be more available or interested in sex in the evening.”

But is there actually a “best” time of day to have sex? We turned to sex experts to get the pros and cons of doing the deed morning, afternoon and night. Here’s what they had to say.

Morning sex
One reason men in particular may be fond of sex before breakfast? Around 8 a.m. is when testosterone levels — the sex hormone that plays a role in libido and erections — are at their peak.

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“For testosterone-producing men, mornings are when the levels of testosterone are highest, since it’s made during sleep,” Robin Wilson-Beattie, a disability and sexuality advocate and educator, told HuffPost. “For some men, this means they have a better sexual response in the a.m.”

What’s more, feel-good neurotransmitters such as endorphins and dopamine are released during sex, “which is a great way to be in a good mood and start your day right,” sex therapist Nazanin Moali, host of the podcast “Sexology,” said.

Early birds may feel extra energetic or enthusiastic in the morning hours, which could make them more game for sex at that time, Wise added.

Morning sex has the potential to boost your mood for the rest of the day.
But there are some potential drawbacks, too — namely that mornings tend to be hectic for people who have to juggle getting ready for work, trying to get the kids off to school and other to-dos. A tight schedule can make it hard for some people to be fully present and in the mood for sex.

“Additionally, stress may lead to struggles with sexual functioning — which, in turn, may result in disappointment and not how you would want to start your morning,” Moali said.

Some people may feel energized by morning sex, but for others, getting busy in the a.m. can make them want to curl up in bed and go back to sleep. The cocktail of hormones released during sex and orgasm can make you feel uber-relaxed but also tired, which isn’t ideal when you’re about to face the day.

“For some, orgasms and sexual activity are exhausting and [they] need rest and emotional care afterward,” Wilson-Beattie said. “And you might not have time for that!”

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Evening sex
Sex at night is popular for a reason, Wilson-Beattie said. It’s only after the events of the day are behind them that partners finally have a chance to relax and connect without distractions.

“With work, children and activities, nighttime is when things slow down and it’s just you and your partner, wrapping the day off with making love before dropping off to sleep,” she said.

Another bonus? Having sex before bed can make it easier for some people to fall asleep, thanks to the release of hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin.

“A mutually satisfying physical and mental interaction before sleep enhances mood, feelings of well-being, releases stress and makes it easier to switch off the busy mind to go to sleep and stay asleep,” Amer Khan, a Sutter Health neurologist and sleep specialist, told Healthline. “If a satisfying sexual orgasm after an exciting foreplay is a part of that interaction, it is also likely to lead to better sleep.”

Having sex before bed can make it easier for some people to fall — and stay — asleep.
On the flip side, if you’re already mentally exhausted before you even get into bed, then sex might be the furthest thing from your mind.

“The stress or occurrences of the day may still occupy a significant portion of your thoughts, and it’s difficult to transition that into a sexual context,” Moali said.

And if you live with certain health conditions or disabilities, “your body may physically be in too much pain from a full day’s activities” to have sex before bed, Wilson-Beattie said.

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A British teacher accused of sexually assaulting a child in Turkey should not be extradited, because she has depression, a court has heard.

Rebecca Richardson, 54, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Thursday as she fights extradition to Turkey over allegations she sexually assaulted a young child while teaching at an international school in Istanbul.

The alleged incident happened in early 2019, when the child would have been four or five years old.

The court heard Richardson, of Cradley in Herefordshire, left the UK in 2000 and spent nearly 20 years living abroad.

She lived in Turkey between 2013 and 2019, but before that had lived in Mexico and Hong Kong, the extradition hearing was told.

Doctors who have assessed her told the court she suffers from depression.

Dr Richard Latham said Richardson suffers from moderate depression, but her symptoms would worsen if she were to be extradited and imprisoned in Turkey.

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