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Infographic: ECRI's Top 10 Tech Hazards of 2026

Analysis  |  By Eric Wicklund  
   January 27, 2026

Dangerous AI bots and 'digital darkness' events top the annual list of healthcare technology gone wrong.

Each year ECRI comes out with its list of top 10 technical hazards. And as expected, AI topped this year's list.

The rapid adoption of AI bots is fueling concerns that people may rely too heavily on what those human-sounding agents say. Some states have already stepped in to regulate AI tools that aim to help people with behavioral health concerns, citing a risk that could lead to injury or even death.

After "Misuse of AI Chatbots in Healthcare," the next top technology concern is a "digital darkness" event that prevents clinicians from accessing the EHR or other platforms. Some experts have warned that healthcare providers could become so dependent on technology that they struggle to deliver basic care when that technology breaks down.

Read the story here. And check out the infographic below for the complete Top 10 list from ECRI:

 

ECRI Top 10 Tech Hazards by Eric Wicklund

Eric Wicklund is the Associate Content Manager and Senior Editor for Innovation and Technology at HealthLeaders.


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