You might be surprised to learn that even the most advanced health tech is extremely vulnerable to attack.
For example, 100% of mobile health apps tested by Approov were found to expose “full patient records including protected health information (PHI) and personally identifiable information (PII).”
Luckily, there are simple ways to safeguard your practice. Read on for tips from the cybersecurity experts at Nerd Crossing.
Secure Your Email
Working from home creates juicy opportunities for criminals to access patient data. For example, your house or apartment network is probably shared with others who should not be privy to patient information.
Phishing is the most common cyberattack facing healthcare professionals like you today. And emails are the most common area of weakness.
Always think before you click! Hover over links in your emails to make sure they point secure websites. Also, never download files or executables without verifying the source of a message!
Browse Safely
An easy way to keep safe is to access your work email on a private network (VPN) and verify that the websites you are visiting use HTTPS.
You should also be using an anti-virus software and avoid creating weak or recycled passwords. Our favorite password managers include Dashlane, LastPass, and Password Safe.
Update Legacy Systems
Before jumping on the health tech bandwagon, a bit of housekeeping might be in order.
Processing data with a legacy system is a huge security risk. The top suspects include Windows Server 2008, Windows 7, and Windows XP.
You should also check whether login information and credentials are truly stored securely. These include computer systems as well as medical devices and facility controls.
To manage dozens and up to thousands of devices and endpoints at a time, consider using a mobile device management (MDM) software. This will help your IT team allow for the use of personal devices while keeping patient data safe by locking up or even completely wiping devices if a breach occurs.
Contact Our Health Tech Nerds
Feeling lost at exactly what to prioritize when it comes to cybersecurity? Our HIPAA certified Nerds are here to help!