Cybersecurity is a critical issue for healthcare organizations of all sizes. Despite the fact that healthcare is one of the most targeted industries for cyberattacks, many organizations still do not take the necessary precautions to protect their data. Healthcare IT consultants should ensure that they are using strong passwords, installing updates and patches as soon as they become available, and using anti-virus software. They should also educate their clients on the importance of cybersecurity and how to protect themselves from attacks.
As healthcare IT consultants, we are responsible for ensuring that our clients are as protected as possible from cyberattacks. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
Use Strong Passwords One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your data is by using strong passwords. A strong password should be at least 8 characters long and include a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters. It should also be changed on a regular basis.
Install Updates and Patches Another way to help protect your data is by installing updates and patches as soon as they become available. Cybercriminals are constantly finding new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, so it’s important to keep your systems up-to-date.
Use Anti-Virus Software Another critical layer of protection is anti-virus software. This software can detect and remove malicious software, also known as malware, from your system. It’s important to note that not all anti-virus software is created equal, so it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable program.
Be Cautious about what you Click One of the most common ways for malware to end up on your system is by clicking on a malicious link or attachment. Be cautious about what you click, even if it’s from a trusted source. If you’re not sure whether or not something is safe, err on the side of caution and don’t click it
Beware of Public Wifi If you’re working on sensitive data, it’s best to avoid using public wifi. Hackers can easily set up fake wifi networks, known as “evil twins,” in order to intercept your data.
Use a VPN If you must use public Wi-Fi, connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your data and helps to protect it from being intercepted by hackers.
Back-Up Your Data One of the best ways to protect your data is to regularly back it up. This way, if your system is ever compromised, you’ll have a copy of your data that you can restore. There are a variety of ways to back up your data, so choose the method that best suits your needs.
Keep an Eye on Your Devices It’s also important to keep an eye on your devices. Make sure you’re only using devices you trust and with the latest security updates. Be especially cautious about using public computers or devices, as they may be compromised.
Watch Out for Scams Cybercriminals are constantly coming up with new ways to scam people, so it’s important to be aware of the latest scams. Be suspicious of any emails or calls that seem unusual, even if they’re from a trusted source. If you’re not sure whether something is legitimate, err on the side of caution.
As healthcare IT consultants, cybersecurity is extremely important and it is our responsibility to ensure that our clients are as protected as possible from cyberattacks and that we aren't introducing additional security threats just by being there. Keep these cybersecurity tips in mind to help you stay safe and keep your client's data secure.
