When you go to a doctor or medical professional, you expect your information to be kept private. That’s because it’s the responsibility of medical organizations to keep your health records confidential. This expectation can be complicated in today’s digital world, especially when healthcare providers face numerous cybersecurity threats from ransomware and other cyber attacks. A recent study found that 72 percent of all healthcare malware attacks in 2016 were ransomware. Healthcare organizations need to have reliable cybersecurity to protect sensitive information. Read on as we detail some savvy cybersecurity tips for healthcare organizations in 2018.
Update cybersecurity procedures and protocols.
Employees need to be trained on procedures to follow in the event of a cyber attack. This includes things like regular password changes, understanding what a suspicious email looks like and the ability to wipe a device if it is lost or stolen. Two-factor identification methods are another way to easily increase security. These protocols need to be revisited and updated on a regular basis. Security procedures need to be followed by every employee, no matter the status of their position.
Understand the seriousness of cyber threats.
While healthcare organizations may not seem like obvious targets for cybercriminals, they’re actually the second most targeted industry, second only to finance. According to Forbes, healthcare organizations can most certainly be a target for cyber criminals, especially in the area of ransomware — a type of malicious software that holds patient’s’ PHI and financial data hostage until the hackers who deploy it receive payment. The threat is so prevalent that the FBI has issued warnings about ransomware and the risks it presents to these organizations. Healthcare facilities must acknowledge the seriousness of cyber threats and understand that without cybersecurity, they’re putting their patients at risk.
Have a data recovery plan.
In the event of a data breach or hack, it’s important for healthcare organizations to have a data recovery plan. A plan will help an organization move forward after an attack with less downtime. Cloud-based systems that perform regular backups and updates are key instruments in a successful recovery plan.
If you’re interested in cybersecurity and data recovery for your healthcare organization, learn about MDL’s cybersecurity services.
