During the COVID-19 pandemic and the expansion in Telemedicine EMR Software solutions, healthcare became the most attractive option for cybercriminals and as a result, there was an increase in data breaches phishing attacks. So how can healthcare organizations navigate cybersecurity challenges? The answers lie in having a proactive strategy and adhering to strict privacy and protection protocols throughout the organization.
Meeting Cybersecurity Standards
To have a powerful security plan it is vital that healthcare organizations meet cybersecurity standards especially the NIST CSF also known as the National Institute of Standards Cybersecurity Framework. This security framework was developed in 2014 and sets a benchmark for the highest level of protection against cybercrimes. The framework covers all sides of security and encryption.
It is difficult for healthcare organizations to properly implement the security framework. Only 44% of hospitals and health systems in the US meet NIST CSF standards as revealed by a report from a cybersecurity consulting firm. This means that healthcare cybersecurity is lacking making healthcare data more vulnerable to be attacked by cybercriminals. This is definitely not a piece of good news for healthcare providers, organizations, and patients.
COVID-19 and an Increase in New Threats in Healthcare
The World Health Organization (WHO) in April 2020 reported a five-fold increase in cybersecurity attacks. Following are the 4 most common types of cybersecurity attacks faced by the healthcare industry.
- Business Email Compromise (BEC) – This is a scam to get hold of personal information or financial data through emails.
- Phishing Attacks – Phishing is when duplicitous communication is sent via a reliable source which deceits the receiver into sending important information.
- Ransomware Attacks – Cybercriminals use ransomware to hold healthcare organizations as data hostages until a ransom is paid out.
- Mobile Threat – Remote working conditions due to the pandemic has led to an increase in mobile threat. The use of public internet connectivity can increase contact with cyber-attacks.
Tips to improve cybersecurity in 2021
- Use an Electronic Medical Records (EMR) Software that is ONC Certified.
- If you’re using a telehealth or telemedicine platform for remote consultations ensure that it is HIPAA compliant to protect patient data.
- Your healthcare organization should work determinedly to align with NIST CSF.
- Only open links for reliable and trusted sources.
- Avoid using public WIFI and always lock your screen.
- Your browser, software, and operating systems need to be updated.
- Use anti-virus software to up security.
If you want to know more about cyber-attacks in healthcare read our blog post on 3 Types of Cyber Attacks Hospitals and Healthcare Organizations Should Know and be prepared to avoid any threats. It is also important that your practice invests in cybersecurity to ensure the smooth running of daily processes without a hitch.
