Medical offices often use a variety of wireless mobile devices, and the more devices they have, the greater chance they will be hacked. It’s essential to have a security plan in place before disaster strikes.
1. Install Security Software on Each Computer
Although most medical offices have security software installed on the computers, it isn’t enough to keep hackers out. Hackers often use malware to gain entry into the system. If your security software isn’t updated, you will find yourself spending a significant amount of time troubleshooting malware. The best way to avoid malware is to update your security software constantly.
2. Eliminate Passwords
If you run your own medical office, you probably have dozens of passwords for everything from patient records to email accounts. The best way to manage these different passwords is to actually eliminate using these passwords. Instead of using passwords that can easily be guessed, it’s best to use multi-factor authentication that uses multiple factors to authenticate a user instead of relying on one password that can easily be shared or hacked.
3. Encrypt All Data
The best way to keep a hacker out of your systems is to encrypt all the data. Encrypting all of your information prevents hackers from using it, although they will often still try and steal it from you. It may also protect you if a lawsuit arises because confidential records could be used against your medical office.
4. Avoid Using Virtual Private Networks
Virtual private networks use software that hides your location from hackers, and most of the time, this is fine, however virtual private networks are not secure. Hackers can configure a virtual private network to look like it is accessing another server somewhere else. This will allow them to access almost all of your information, which is a huge problem for medical offices. The best way to keep your data hidden is to use dedicated servers located in locations that can’t be hacked.
5. Defend Against Spam Emails
Medical office computers and networks are easily compromised, and hackers often send spam emails advertising other software programs or services. This is a huge problem because when they send a spam email, they leave a back door open for them to enter your systems at any time. It’s crucial to use spam filters and set rules that block spam emails immediately. You’ll also want to look at your email programs, which can be easily hacked.
6. Keep Your System Up-to-Date
Multiple security vulnerabilities get discovered every day, and the best way to keep your system up to date is to keep it updated. Every time a security update gets released, it closes security holes hackers can exploit. If you don’t update your systems regularly, you leave them vulnerable to attack. The best way to keep your systems up to date is to use a security program that has security updates included.
In conclusion, it is vital to keep your medical office’s cyber secure because if your systems were compromised and patient information was released, you may be held legally accountable. Using the security tips we discussed in this article will help you avoid any future cyber attacks.