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Cybersecurity: How To Keep My Patient Records Safe

by Aaron Watkins, CPA | November 4, 2022

The American Dental Association is advising dentists and their staffs to be on the alert for possible internet security risks. As a business owner during the most robust technological era in history, the importance of utilizing best practices around cybersecurity protocol is at an all-time high. It is estimated that 45 million people were affected by cyberattacks on the healthcare sector in 2021, a 32% increase over the year prior. Cyberattacks using ransomware, a type of malware that is designed to block access to a computer system until a sum of money is paid, are increasing year over year. Ransomware attacks can be detrimental to patient care, as they can lock doctors out of treatment plans and shutdown practice digital system which will create backlogs that delay appointments and treatment. We urge everyone to increase vigilance and evaluate their capabilities, encompassing planning, preparation, detection, and response for such events.

What steps can I take to ensure my practice is safe from destructive malware?

Here are a few recommended actions people can take to help strengthen and protect their data: • Enabling multifactor authentication when there is remote login capability.

  • Setting antivirus and antimalware programs to conduct regular scans.
  • Enabling strong spam filters to help prevent phishing emails from reaching end users.
  • Updating software.
  • Conducting routine user access checks
  • Routinely back-up data records at an offsite location. (via cloud)
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