October is Cybersecurity Month: Why Does This Matter?
Cyber threats are continuing to evolve. These threats are getting smarter and more advanced, so we must evolve with them. Cybercriminals are targeting even the everyday user more than ever, whether it’s through phishing emails, malware attempts, or ransomware attacks. What is the good news with all this? A few small daily practices can drastically improve your security both at home and in the workplace.
5 Tips Streamlinz Recommends for Staying Secure
- Use Strong, UNIQUE Passwords for Every Account
Avoid using the same password across all of your accounts. This may seem like a trivial recommendation but can save you so much time and a very big headache when a breach occurs.
Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords for you. Having all your passwords written on hardcopy and stored securely is also a secure way to manage each accounts information.
Don’t use personal information in your passwords or usernames! Easy to remember items like your pet’s name or a birthday are easy for you to remember, but also easy for hackers to guess.
- Think BEFORE You Click
At home, we frequently fall back into our routines of being safe & cozy but remember that phishing attempts are still out there!
Double check the sender addresses of emails you think are suspicious or out of the ordinary. Hover over links you receive to verify legitimacy before clicking on them. This can save you from cyberattacks and scams which can have malicious attachments.
Don’t open attachments which are from unknown or questionable sources. This may seem like oversimplified advice, but we often zone out when we are in our home settings, which can lead to lapses in attention to detail.
- Turn On Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
Multifactor authentication (MFA) can offer a second layer of protection against intruders even if we have a lapse in judgement or click a malicious link.
MFA should be enacted on many of your login platforms, but especially on bank accounts, email, and social media platforms.
App based authentication is one of the safest forms of multifactor authentication. Apps such as Duo Security, Okta, and Google Authenticator are a few examples.
MFA is simple to set up and is an incredible deterrent to cyberattacks, go the extra step to secure your assets.
- Update Your Software Early, And Often
Software and system updates can be tedious and frustrating when they occur so frequently, but these updates can help to prevent major issues within the company. Never overlook your system when it prompts you for an “available update”. These updates frequently patch serious vulnerabilities in the current software, preventing attackers who are prowling for the easiest point of entry into your systems.
Ensure the medical devices you use, such as tablets and remote laptops are regularly updated with the most current updates and encrypt your data to keep both you and your patients information locked safely away.
Regular updates to your software and systems align with the required HIPAA technical safeguards and bring you one step closer to HIPAA compliance. Your system’s integrity and malware protection will thank you in the long run.
- Secure Your Devices And Your Networks
Lock your screens when you step away, even for bathroom breaks or brief moments. This can prevent those in shared or clinical environments from tampering with your information or seeing private data.
When creating Wi-Fi passwords, ensure they are unique and strong, especially when accessing PHI, even if it is your own. Avoid public Wi-Fi networks that may not be secure when accessing sensitive information.
Encrypt your laptops, tablets, and phones that store or have access to personal or sensitive information.
Keep an inventory of devices that have connected to your networks and accessed your personal information. Be cautious of unknown devices and networks.re way to manage each accounts information.
Small Habits Can Have a Large Impact
Cybersecurity isn’t always about the most complex technologies and processes; it is about building beneficial habits and being mindful. Every single click has an impact on your security and keeping your information safe. Having both secure systems, and a mindful process of interacting online will keep you smart and secure.
These five habits are the building blocks to not only protecting your data, but also your patients, organization, and reputation. Developing small and consistent habits are the most impactful ways to reduce human error and your risk of data breach or HIPAA violation. These aren’t meant to be complex steps, but everyday actions which are built into your habits for security.
When everyone takes accountability for their cybersecurity, being secure becomes second nature and helps to keep everyone safe. Staying alert and in the know are the first steps to protecting your practice.
Streamlinz is here to help you build a compliant practice and build healthy compliance habits into your everyday processes. We are always one secure click away!