By Aris Medical Solutions
This is actually easier said than done. However, there are some simple tips you can use to help guard yourself against this cyber warfare.
First of all let’s discuss what is Ransomware and why are these criminals doing this?
Ransomware is when an invader takes over your computer and encrypts your data and will not release it until you pay a “ransom”. Simply put, they do this to make money and, since it is a lucrative business, we do not see it going away anytime soon. With healthcare being such a popular target, you must be vigilant at all times.
Next, there are malicious malware and viruses that are used just want to be mean. Although I am not a fan of bumper stickers, I do like the one that says “Mean People Suck”. These criminals are the meanest of the mean. They don’t even give you the opportunity to pay a ransom. They just encrypt your data or delete it. I could go on and on explaining how all of this works, but instead let’s just talk about how to prevent this from happening in the first place!
Rule #1
Read the email carefully. More than likely you can spot misspelled words or subtle clues that the email is not authentic. Look closely at the email address. At a quick glance it may look like a legitimate email address. It will start with a prefix other than the original address and may even include a period (.) in a separate place. I have said this many times…rather than clicking on links or attachments in your email, open your browser and go to that particular website instead.
Rule #2
Again, do not EVER click on an attachment in an email that claims to have important information that you must act on immediately. For example:
- FedEx (UPS, USPS) was not able to deliver your package
- Your friend liked your post on Facebook, click to read more (some of these are true but it is best to open your browser and go to Facebook)
- A message about your credit card or bank account.
There are many variations to these emails. Just exercise caution when opening your mail even from people you know. Their email account may have been hacked and being used to distribute the virus.
Rule #3
Keep a backup of any and all data that you want or need. Once the backup is created, disconnect it from your computer or network. If your system is ever violated, your backup will not be affected. Then you can wipe your system clean and restore your data.
Having a good anti-virus and anti-malware installed on your system are a necessity today, but it still only takes one click of a mouse to bring your network down because the software developers have to identify the problem before they can send out an update. Criminals are creating hundreds if not thousands of new viruses daily! Continual education for you and your staff is a must!
For more information on how Aris Medical Solutions can help your organization with HIPAA Compliance and Protecting your Practice call 877.659.2467 or click here to contact us.
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