Common anti-virus, Kaspersky that came pre-install on computers from popular retailer Best Buy was recently found to be a vulnerable to security risks.
(see article)
This just demonstrates, that no matter your best intentions or how proactive you are at security protected health information (PHI) you need to have an updated and dynamic process for addressing HIPAA security issues.
Here are some things we think you need to address with your staff, to protect you work stations and network:
- E-Mail phishing scams. Never download or open anything on work computers from your e-mail.
- Never check personal e-mail from work computers.
- Make sure your wireless password is not the factory default and change it once per year.
- Make sure employees are not sharing passwords. Each individual employee needs their own log-in.
- If you are using a data back up service. Make sure you understand how you can restore that data if and when you need it.
There are many other factors in establishing a comprehensive process of maintaining protected health information (PHI). These are some of the easiest to fix and most common dangers to health care providers today.