Update your
software
One of the most
common rea-
sons for data
breaches comes
from employees
neglecting to
update their
operating sys-
tems. If just one
medical device or one employee's device isn't updated, hackers can
easily break into your system. If that device is attached to your facili-
ty's larger network, it provides an entry point for cyberattackers who
will put the malware or virus into your system. Once in, it will spread
like a disease through the rest of your network.
Accept software upgrades as soon as your computer offers them to
you, says Ms. Derrico. The upgrades each have security updates, fea-
tures and patches that your operating system needs. This includes
installing and frequently updating anti-malware software like
Antivirus or Norton, which help protect and warn against possible
attacks, she adds. Updating your software regularly doesn't just apply
to your computer. Update your phone, your tablet or any device that
you own and bring into your facility — particularly those you may use
to access private patient information.
"The weakest link can be infiltrated," says Ms. Derrico. That calls to
mind the recent FBI warning about cyber criminals who were target-
ing file transfer protocol servers (FTPs) at medical facilities.
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In phishing attacks,
hackers will send
a malicious link
in an email
using an address
that could look
familiar to you
or your facility.
