Our digital world offers many benefits that help organizations of all sizes grow. Yet, with that comes challenges. Cybersecurity remains a top concern for various industries — including nonprofits. 

According to a November 2022 survey, the majority of successful cyberattacks have been a stark reality. Over 45% of organizations reported between one to five successful breaches within the past year, underlying the growing need for robust cybersecurity strategies. 

To develop these strategies, one must first understand which techniques cyber attackers use. Through this, nonprofits can mitigate cyber threats and protect their data and finances. 

Why Are Nonprofits Vulnerable to Cyberattacks?

There are common reasons why nonprofit organizations may be more vulnerable to cyberattacks. They can include the following: 

• Limited cybersecurity expertise: Nonprofits often operate with constrained resources and may lack dedicated cybersecurity experts. This gap in expertise may leave them more susceptible to sophisticated cyber threats. Nonprofits can find it challenging to implement defense mechanisms or respond to threats.
• Lack of awareness and prioritization: Cybersecurity might not always receive the attention it deserves. A lack of awareness among staff and leadership may lead to inadequate investment in preventive measures. 
• Third-party service providers: Collaborating with external vendors or partners introduces additional vulnerabilities. Nonprofits might not rigorously assess the cybersecurity measures of these entities. This can increase the risk of breaches stemming from weaknesses in their third-party networks.

6 Cybersecurity Challenges for Nonprofit Organizations

Understanding common cyber risks for nonprofits can help them identify their vulnerabilities. As such, they can tailor solutions to their needs and address these challenges. Here are the top cybersecurity challenges for nonprofits.

1. Ransomware

The first cyber risk for nonprofits is ransomware. It’s a form of malicious software that infiltrates one’s computer with the goal of encrypting files or locking users out until a ransom is paid. Hence the name. 

Cyber attackers usually exploit vulnerabilities in systems or use phishing emails to deploy the ransomware. Unfortunately, nonprofits typically lack cybersecurity measures and become prime targets for cyberattacks. 

These attackers can then block access to critical data and demand cryptocurrency payment. This transaction is challenging to trace. Also, even if the nonprofit pays the ransom, there’s no guarantee that their files will be decrypted. 

2. Email Phishing Schemes

Fraudulent emails that mimic legitimate entities to deceive recipients are another common cybersecurity risk for nonprofit organizations. Phishing schemes aim to gain sensitive information. Cyber attackers use malicious links or have recipients download harmful attachments. 

These attackers leverage social engineering tactics by crafting convincing messages that appear genuine. Through this, they aim to exploit human vulnerabilities rather than technological weaknesses.

Nonprofits, which often rely on email communication and potentially lack email security measures, can be especially susceptible to these schemes. This jeopardizes the confidentiality of the nonprofit’s donor information, financial data and operational details. 

3. Social Engineering

Social engineering exploits human psychology and preys on the culture of trust and collaboration within nonprofits. Cyber attackers deceive individuals into divulging sensitive information or performing actions compromising security. 

Cyber attackers use impersonation, pretexting or create a sense of urgency to gain access to confidential data or systems. For nonprofits, these attackers can impersonate trusted entities such as donors, volunteers or even internal personnel. Nonprofit staff who are unfamiliar with these techniques may accidentally share login credentials or financial details. 

4. Data Breaches From Employees

Unfortunately, there are scenarios where staff members deliberately compromise security protocols or misuse access privileges. These employees may have different motivations for such actions, be it financial gain, revenge or even coercion by external parties. 

These breaches can be challenging to prevent through technical means. They often need a combination of access controls, continuous monitoring and employee training.

5. Data Breaches From Third-Party Vendors

External entities compromising security measures may lead to leaked or stolen sensitive data. Such breaches might stem from internal negligence, inadequate security protocols or even malicious intent within the vendor’s organization. 

Nonprofits who are reliant on these vendors for various services may be more susceptible as their data can be interconnected.

6. Malicious Software

Malicious software, or malware for short, includes a range of harmful programs. These programs are designed to infiltrate and damage computer systems or networks. Cyber attackers can use phishing emails or compromised websites to gain unauthorized access and disrupt operations. 

Once infiltrated, it can then execute a multitude of damaging actions. Malware can steal sensitive information or even render an organization’s systems inoperable. Cyber attackers may also deploy ransomware, which can further lead to potential financial losses. 

As you’ve noticed, many of these cybersecurity risks interconnect with each other. All result in either data, financial or reputation damage, but there are ways to combat these threats. 

Cybersecurity Best Practices for Nonprofits

There are several best practices that nonprofit organizations can put in place: 

• Regular employee training: Educate your employees about common cyberattacks and techniques. Training should cover various points, such as spotting suspicious emails, avoiding clicking on unknown links and handling sensitive information securely.
• Strong password policies: Mandate complex passwords, regular updates and multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible. This adds an extra layer of security even if passwords are compromised.
• Updated software and systems: Ensure you keep your organization’s software, applications and operating systems updated. Updated software comes with the latest security patches and updates, addressing known vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit.
• Data encryption: Nonprofit organizations must encrypt their sensitive data — both in transit and at rest — to prevent unauthorized access. This ensures that even if data is intercepted, it remains unreadable without the proper decryption keys.
• Regular backups: Always back up critical organizational data. Also, ensure that you store these backups offline or in a separate, secure environment to mitigate the impact of ransomware attacks or data loss.
• Vendor risk management: Establish clear security requirements in vendor contracts and conduct regular assessments. Ensure that you vet and check third-party vendors’ cybersecurity measures.
• Access control: You can install access controls to limit employees’ access to data and systems based on their roles. Follow the principle of least privilege — restrict access only to what’s necessary for each individual’s job responsibilities.
• Incident response plan: Having an incident response plan with the necessary steps can help tremendously. The plan should be regularly updated. Outline clear roles, communication procedures and strategies for containment and recovery.

Prelude Services Can Help Protect Your Nonprofit

Nonprofits often face daunting cybersecurity challenges. They navigate through a maze of threats without a clear roadmap. The good news is that they don’t have to face this battle alone. Outsourcing your IT and cybersecurity to experienced providers tailored to nonprofits can significantly help. 

Explore professional and customizable IT solutions for your nonprofit with Prelude Services — from cybersecurity to network management. Our expertise in cybersecurity for nonprofits ensures that your organization can focus on its core objectives while having digital defense strategies in place. 

Get in touch with us if you have any other questions and to learn more about how Prelude Services can help your organization.

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Technology has transformed healthcare, giving professionals access to updated patient records to raise the standard of care. Electronic health records (EHRs) are a big part of this transformation, with 75% of healthcare providers believing they help provide better patient care. Many healthcare organizations rely on these records in their daily activities. 

While EHRs and other digitized healthcare operations have significant benefits, they also open patient data to potential cyber threats. Over 100 million healthcare records have been breached as of November 2023, causing considerable damage to organizations, staff and patients. The first step to combat cybercrime is understanding the biggest cybersecurity threats so you can take the necessary steps to protect yourself. 

Why Are Cybersecurity Threats in Healthcare So Prevalent? 

The healthcare industry is especially vulnerable to cyberattacks. Malicious actors have many reasons to target healthcare institutions, from the masses of patient data to the potential reward of holding their information hostage. Healthcare data is attractive to cybercriminals as they can use it to perform identity theft and fraud, such as obtaining false insurance claims, prescription drugs or even receiving treatment with someone else’s identity. 

As healthcare data is valuable, many institutions take every possible cybersecurity measure. Yet, it’s still vulnerable to cybercrime for several reasons, including lack of endpoint device management, limited budgets and human factors like overworked staff and lack of security awareness. Healthcare systems also involve complex supply chains, and cybercriminals can identify and target weaknesses to access sensitive data. 

5 Biggest Cyber Threats in Healthcare

The cyber threat landscape is evolving. New threats appear often, forcing healthcare organizations to take a proactive stance on maintaining HIPAA data security requirements. They consistently innovate, refining their methods to maximize their chances of success. The top 5 cybersecurity threats in healthcare include: 

1. Phishing

Phishing is the most widespread cybersecurity threat in healthcare. This social engineering attack involves attackers using email or text messages — also known as smishing — to gain personal information. A staggering 93% of cyberattacks start with a phishing email. 

Phishing attempts often appear to come from a legitimate medical organization and encourage the recipient to click on a link. Recipients are directed to a decoy web page and asked to submit their credentials. Once they have, cybercriminals can use them to access healthcare systems. 

2. Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware attacks have hit 60% of healthcare companies in the past year. In this attack, cybercriminals inject malware into your system, often delivered by a phishing attack. The malware encrypts or infects your sensitive data, rendering it unusable until you pay a ransom. 

Hackers understand that healthcare organizations must remain operational. They leverage the understandable panic when you can’t access patient data to increase the chance of payment to resume treating patients. 

3. Data Breaches

A data breach is a cybersecurity incident in which unauthorized parties access sensitive data like bank account numbers or healthcare information. Although many assume a data breach is another term for a cyberattack, many cyberattacks don’t breach data confidentiality to achieve the hackers’ goals. 

The healthcare industry experiences more data breaches than any other sector. Personal health information (PHI) is precious on the black market, even more than credit card credentials. Many incidents can result in a breach, from lost devices to insider threats and malware. Failing to keep patient data secure can result in considerable financial and reputational loss for your organization, and preventing a breach is a primary goal for many. 

4. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) Attacks

A DDoS attack involves flooding your server with face connection requests and forcing your organization offline. While these attacks don’t put your data at risk like ransomware, they have the same effect on your ability to operate. Some cybercriminals prefer this method because they can create the same disruption without compromising a network, so they can deploy them on a broader scale. 

As these attacks are fast and effective, some hackers pair them with ransom requests, forcing healthcare organizations offline until they pay the ransom. They represent a significant risk to healthcare organizations that need access to patient information. 

5. Insider Threats

Over half of healthcare breaches come from inside the organization. Insiders pose a significant threat because they have legitimate access to your data, which they can intentionally or unintentionally pass on to malicious actors. This type of threat is challenging to detect, and many unintentional breaches are preventable with the proper training and cybersecurity measures. 

How to Combat Cyber Threats in the Healthcare Industry

Lack of cybersecurity poses a significant threat. A single successful phishing attempt can cause considerable damage to every aspect of your organization. Protecting yourself from cyber threats requires a proactive approach, following cybersecurity best practices and consulting industry-specific experts. Some steps you can take to protect your patients and operations include: 

1. Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment

You can only protect yourself when you understand your vulnerabilities. Outsourcing cybersecurity assessments are the best way to leverage your strengths and address your weaknesses. An industry-specific managed services provider (MSP) reviews and prioritizes your level of risk based on several factors and provides guidance on how to handle your current cybersecurity posture. 

As healthcare is a high-risk industry, conduct a minimum of one assessment a year to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. 

2. Leverage the Latest Cybersecurity Controls

Legacy systems pose another level of cybersecurity risk as they lack the scope to combat modern threats. Beyond basic security controls, invest in advanced systems purpose-built to protect your data and systems. Your MSP can help you select suitable security systems based on your needs and budget. 

3. Educate Your Team

One of the most potent ways to fight cybercrime is to create a security culture within your organization. Provide your team with comprehensive cybersecurity training and raise awareness about common threats they may encounter. Protecting your organization is a team effort. Empower your personnel with the knowledge to proactively protect themselves, patients and the organization. 

4. Establish Robust Cybersecurity Policies and Procedures

A strong security policy can help your organization manage cybersecurity by setting baseline expectations for everyone. Some standard policies for healthcare organizations include controlling who can access information within your system and devising an incident response plan so that everyone on your team knows what to do if a breach occurs. 

5. Consult the Experts

Cybersecurity is a vast and complex field. Consulting an MSP with industry-specific cybersecurity expertise is the best way to safeguard your networks and data. They can take care of the cybersecurity logistics so that you can focus on what you do best — providing the highest quality patient care. 

Protect Your Patients With Prelude Services

Increasing your cybersecurity is non-negotiable in today’s threat landscape, and when you’re investing, you need a team you can trust on board. As an MSP specializing in healthcare, Prelude Services is uniquely positioned to help you protect sensitive patient data. Our advanced IT security systems are ideal for protecting your patients and organization. 

Our experienced technicians will configure and monitor your entire IT network, keeping your critical information safe from cyber threats with various innovative strategies, including hardware and software support, information security and vulnerability identification. Contact us to protect your organization from cyberattacks today. 

The post The Biggest Cybersecurity Threats in the Healthcare Industry appeared first on Prelude Services.

Protecting sensitive patient information is critical in today’s digitized healthcare landscape. The prevalence of phishing attacks in healthcare has reached alarming proportions, posing a substantial threat to data security. According to recent statistics, phishing is the leading cause of cyberattacks in the healthcare sector. 

But what is phishing? It’s not only deceptive emails — it also takes the form of voice-based and SMS-based attacks. Cybercriminals relentlessly pursue unsuspecting employees who inadvertently grant access to confidential data by clicking seemingly harmless links. 

The consequences of a healthcare data breach are severe, with an average financial loss reaching nearly $11 million in 2023. This financial burden, coupled with the potential for serious patient harm and disrupted emergency services, underscores the urgency of safeguarding healthcare data.

This blog explores effective strategies to protect healthcare data from phishing attacks, empowering professionals with the knowledge to defend against this pervasive threat.

Understanding Phishing in Healthcare

In healthcare, the term “phishing” takes on a particularly ominous meaning. Phishing attacks in healthcare involve cybercriminals deploying cunningly deceptive tactics to trick employees into divulging sensitive information — often through seemingly innocuous emails, messages or phone calls.

These attacks are severe threats with dire consequences. A phishing attack in healthcare can lead to compromised patient data, unauthorized access to medical records and financial losses. They are more than financial burdens — they can severely harm patients and disrupt essential services.

For instance, in 2021, 32% of cyberattacks in healthcare impacted patient safety. Even more concerning, 26% of these attacks disrupted devices and systems, affecting IT operations and putting lives at risk.

It’s impossible to overstate the criticality of proactive prevention. With phishing attacks representing a significant portion of cyberattacks in healthcare, organizations and professionals must equip themselves with the knowledge and tools to protect healthcare data from phishing. 

Common Phishing Tactics in Healthcare

In the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape, healthcare professionals must be well-versed in common phishing tactics that threaten data integrity. Recognizing these tactics is the first line of defense in protecting sensitive patient information and maintaining the sanctity of healthcare operations. Here are a few common phishing attacks in healthcare.

Email-Based Attacks

Phishing in healthcare often comes in the form of deceptive emails. Cybercriminals meticulously craft legitimate messages using alarming subject lines or mimicking trusted sources. They may impersonate colleagues, administrators or governmental agencies to persuade recipients to click on malicious links or download infected attachments. Recognizing these suspicious emails is essential. Look for telltale signs like generic greetings, poor grammar and unfamiliar sender email addresses.

Social Engineering Tactics

Phishers prey on human psychology. They exploit emotions like fear or curiosity to manipulate healthcare employees into taking actions that compromise security. For instance, they might send emails with fake urgency, like purported patient emergencies, or employ psychological tricks to make recipients feel obligated to respond promptly. Awareness of these manipulative tactics is critical to thwarting their effectiveness.

Impersonation and Spoofing

In healthcare, attackers often impersonate trusted entities, whether it’s a superior within the organization, a co-worker or a legitimate business partner. They skillfully mimic email addresses or websites, making it challenging to discern the deceit. The goal is to gain trust and persuade targets to share sensitive information. Always verify requests’ legitimacy, especially when they involve sensitive data or financial transactions.

How to Prevent Phishing in Healthcare

Preventing phishing attacks in healthcare is crucial, given their severe repercussions on patient data and healthcare operations. Let’s explore comprehensive strategies to safeguard healthcare data from phishing attacks and equip you with the knowledge and tools to fortify your defenses.

Employee Training

Education and awareness are pivotal in preventing phishing attacks in healthcare. Consider implementing a comprehensive training programs that empower employees to effectively recognize and respond to phishing attempts.

Training programs should educate employees about the various forms of phishing attacks, emphasizing the critical need for vigilance when handling emails, messages and other forms of digital communication. By imparting knowledge about the tactics and indicators of phishing, employees can become the first line of defense against these threats.

Practical training through simulated phishing campaigns can be highly effective. By exposing employees to real-world scenarios, organizations can measure their susceptibility to phishing and tailor training accordingly. Tracking improvements in employees’ ability to identify phishing attempts, as demonstrated through lower click rates in subsequent simulations, is a critical success metric.

Successful employee training strengthens cybersecurity and instills a culture of responsibility and security awareness within healthcare organizations.

Technical Safeguards

Robust technical safeguards can bolster your defenses against phishing in healthcare. These measures are essential for preventing malicious emails from reaching their targets and mitigating the potential impact of phishing incidents. Let’s explore a few technical safeguards. 

• Email filtering and blacklists: Healthcare providers should implement advanced email filtering systems to identify and quarantine inbound phishing attempts. Phishing blacklists can enhance security by isolating messages from known spam sources, reducing the chances of an employee inadvertently clicking on a malicious link.
• URL filters for web browsers: URL filtering technology restricts access to malicious websites attackers use to collect user credentials or install malware. By preventing users from visiting these dangerous sites, medical organizations can minimize the risk of falling victim to phishing schemes that lead to data breaches.
• Multifactor authentication: MFA renders stolen credentials ineffective by requiring users to verify their identity through a registered device or additional authentication methods. Even if an attacker acquires login information through a phishing attempt, they would still need the secondary authentication factor — significantly reducing the chances of unauthorized access.

By adopting these technical safeguards, you can proactively fortify your cybersecurity posture and reduce your susceptibility to phishing attacks.

Minimizing Publicly Available Information

To strengthen defenses against phishing attacks, your organization must vigilantly minimize publicly available information. By reducing their digital footprint, medical providers can make it harder for cybercriminals to launch successful phishing campaigns.

Cybercriminals often search for email addresses and contact details on organizational websites to fuel their phishing attempts. By keeping this information confidential, you can thwart attackers seeking to exploit it maliciously.

Cybercriminals can also use publicly available data in spear-phishing attacks, meticulously crafting emails to target specific people within an organization. By limiting the amount of publicly accessible data, healthcare organizations can lower their risk of falling victim to these highly personalized and potentially devastating phishing tactics.

Taking these precautions can significantly diminish your organization’s public profile, making it less appealing to cybercriminals and enhancing overall security against phishing attacks.

Use a Cybersecurity Provider

Collaborating with cybersecurity professionals can be essential to fortifying your defenses against the relentless wave of phishing attacks in healthcare. Outsourcing IT services to a specialized cybersecurity firm offers several advantages. They bring expertise that extends beyond what an in-house team can provide.

Enlisting professional assistance can benefit your healthcare institution in various ways.

• Specialized knowledge: Cybersecurity providers are well-versed in the intricacies of healthcare-specific threats, making them uniquely equipped to combat phishing attacks tailored to the industry.
• Advanced technologies: These experts leverage state-of-the-art technologies and best practices to bolster defenses and swiftly respond to emerging threats.
• Constant vigilance: A dedicated cybersecurity partner offers round-the-clock monitoring and immediate incident response, reducing the impact of potential breaches.

In the ongoing battle against phishing attacks in healthcare, partnering with cybersecurity professionals can make all the difference. With their support, your business can safeguard sensitive patient data, maintain trust and ensure the integrity of their operations. 

Partner With Prelude Services, Your Trusted Cybersecurity Ally

In an age where healthcare data is a prized target for cybercriminals, fortifying your defenses against phishing attacks is not merely a choice — it’s a mandate. We’ve outlined comprehensive strategies to protect healthcare data from phishing attacks. But now, it’s crucial to act. Healthcare professionals, administrators and IT teams must unite in implementing these preventive measures.

The fight against phishing requires expertise and unwavering dedication. With our two decades of cybersecurity excellence, Prelude Services is your strategic partner. We offer a suite of cybersecurity services, including phishing testing, vulnerability scanning, multifactor authentication and more.

Let’s fortify your healthcare organization’s cybersecurity defenses together. Protect the invaluable healthcare data under your care. Contact us online today — your shield against phishing starts here.

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Healthcare data has significant value for hackers, and older adult care is one of the most targeted industries. Hackers use personal data to access patient healthcare information, create false identities, commit insurance fraud or obtain free medical treatment. 

Knowing how to prevent smishing attacks is crucial to protect patients and your bottom line. A healthcare data breach can have devastating consequences. It can cause care disruptions, jeopardize patient privacy and eliminate an entire healthcare network. Recovery from a cyberattack can cost millions of dollars, and attacks on the healthcare industry are increasing. In a recent survey, 21% of healthcare organizations claimed they had been victims of a smishing attack. 

What Is a Smishing Attack?

Let’s take a look at the meaning and definition of smashing. Smishing is a type of short message system (SMS) phishing — the name is a combination of “SMS” and “phishing.” These cyberattacks use social engineering to exploit human trust. Hackers send fraudulent messages to trick recipients into clicking on a malicious link or sharing personal information. People tend to trust text messages more than emails, which has led to a 300% increase in smishing scams within two years. 

How Does Smishing Work?

Smishing is almost identical to email phishing, where the attacker wins your trust through manipulation. Cybercriminals send you a message via SMS or instant message, enticing you to click a link or reply with your personal information. 

If you click the link in a smishing message, the cybercriminals have two ways to steal the data they want: 

• The link may direct you to a fraudulent version of an official website, directing you to fill out a form containing your personal information. 
• Clicking the link may download malware onto your device, allowing them to access your sensitive information. 

Since healthcare providers must keep patient data safe, hackers may also use phishing and smishing to install ransomware. 

How Does Smishing Spread?

Scammers can deliver smishing messages through traditional messaging and web-based messaging applications. Users often assume that text messages are more trustworthy than emails. Many people also multitask on their phones, making them more likely to click links in a hurry or by mistake. 

Many healthcare workers use their devices in the scope of their work. While this bring-your-own-device (BYOD) has enhanced efficiency and productivity, it has significant cybersecurity challenges. Smishing uses malware to spread throughout networks. Once cyberattackers breach one network-connected device, they can access the entire network, gaining access to sensitive patient data. 

Types of Smishing Attacks

Smishing is a phishing method and hackers can deliver many types of phishing scams via text message, including the following:

• Spear phishing: In this more direct attack, hackers target a specific team or individual within your organization instead of sending generic messages. 
• Whaling: Whaling attacks either target or impersonate high-value individuals within the organization. Impersonating a senior executive is an excellent method of convincing employees to make payments or divulge sensitive information. 
• Clone phishing: Attackers may clone legitimate text messages instead of impersonating someone else. They alter the link slightly, taking you to a cloned replica of the original site where you’ll feel comfortable providing your personal information. 
• Vishing: A vishing scam is similar to smishing, except scammers use voice calls instead of text and email. Vishing and smishing sometimes go hand in hand as a social engineering technique.
• IM smishing: This attack targets users through instant messaging, such as Facebook messenger. It may come from a stranger or what appears to be one of your contacts. Hackers sometimes create spoofed accounts, pretending to be someone you know to gain your trust. 

How to Recognize Smishing

Recognizing a smishing text message is the first step to preventing smashing attacks. Look for the following signs to help you identify them:

• Text messages that ask for personal information or entice you to click on a link
• A sender name or number that resembles a legitimate entity but has one or two different characters  
• Spelling and grammatical errors
• Unexpected messages or messages from senders you haven’t spoken to before
• Text messages with a sense or urgency or threat of immediate action 

How to Defend Against Smishing

Defending against smishing attacks is critical for patient care, data safety and profitability. The HIPAA privacy rule requires covered healthcare organizations to implement a security awareness training program to protect sensitive patient data. While vital, these training sessions are only a starting point. As cybercriminals become more adept, specialist IT services are a must for many. 

Complementary methods of smishing defense include the following:

1. Employee Training

Smishing targets individuals, so staff must be able to recognize smishing attempts and know the protocols for reporting them. Training might include running mock smishing events to identify potential weaknesses in your team. As smishing scams evolve, healthcare organizations should provide ongoing training as needed. Regular training will help healthcare professionals recognize and report new trends. 

2. Cybersecurity Measures

Protecting yourself and your organization from smishing attempts requires IT professionals with considerable expertise. A trained team will identify and patch network weaknesses, implement endpoint security systems and keep antivirus software up to date. They will conduct regular vulnerability scans across your network and block malicious domains as they are identified. 

Many smashing scams use spoofing technologies to mimic a legitimate website, manipulating users into filling in their personal details. As many healthcare providers rely on their mobile devices for their work, implementing anti-spoofing technologies to minimize fraudulent websites can be crucial. 

3. Communication

Healthcare organizations must stay current with the latest scams and communicate the dangers throughout their organization to defend their data. If vulnerable parties know what to look for, they are less likely to fall prey to smashing attempts. 

Examples of Smishing

Cyberattacks are constantly evolving as cybercriminals engineer their attempts to catch you off guard. For example, the New Hampshire COVID-19 smishing campaign claimed to provide test results and asked recipients to validate their COVID-19 status. 

Some common smishing examples include the following:

• Competition wins: Receiving a message informing you that you’ve won a contest is a well-known red flag. Clicking on the link to claim your prize can cause you to accidentally install malware on your device instead. 
• Surveys: Smishing attempts can take the form of surveys, often claiming you’ll win a prize if you answer the questions. If they ask you to click on a link, there’s a strong possibility it’s a smishing attempt. 
• Delivery notifications: Scammers know there’s a good chance you’re waiting for a delivery. Even if you’re not, you may click on a link that looks like it comes from a trusted brand. Many delivery companies offer legitimate updates, making this an easy entry point for scammers to confuse you. 
• CEO fraud: Hackers sometimes rely on people’s instincts to reply to a boss’s request as soon as possible. They may send a message that looks like it comes from someone in your organization claiming to need immediate assistance with a task. 
• Bank or credit card scams: Receiving a message about your money can be stressful and cybercriminals use this anxiety to get you to act quickly. These scams often ask you to verify your banking or contact information. 
• Fake password resets: With many people using two-factor authentication to protect their data, scammers may send a text message claiming your account has experienced a breach. When this happens, they have already established your phone number and email address. They’ll send a code to reset your password and a link to a spoofed email site that asks you to enter your login information. Once they have your password, the hackers will either sell the information, take control of your account or use it to send more phishing emails.
• Cellphone smishing: Scammers may pose as your mobile service provider and offer you discounts or upgrades. These messages often include a link to activate the offer, taking you to a spoofed website that prompts you to confirm your personal information. 
• Tax scams: Hackers often take advantage of tax season with messages claiming that you owe money or are due a refund. They install malware on your device when you click the link to make payments or retrieve your money. 

While these attacks personally affect the victim, they also grant hackers access to their work networks and sensitive patient data. Malware travels rapidly through an organization’s network and can cause significant damage without effective and professional cybersecurity protection. 

How to Protect Seniors Citizens from Smishing Attacks

Educating older adults is the most effective way to prevent smishing. Make them aware of common scams and ask them to verify any texts they receive with you or the sender via telephone. 

The more you can do to stop scammers from making contact with older adults, the better. Loneliness, diminished cognitive reasoning and accrued savings often make them prime targets for scammers. 

Some tips to prevent seniors from falling victim to smashing scams include the following:

• Security software: Ensure older adults have updated security software on their devices and check that it updates automatically. 
• Multi-factor authentication: Familiarize older adults with multi-factor authentication for all social media and online accounts. Activate biometrics on their devices to prevent unwanted access. 
• Call recording: Many smishing attempts begin with a phone call. They can install a call recording app on their devices to monitor suspicious conversations or requests. 
• Communication: Stay abreast of the latest scams so you can advise the older adults in your care. Print posters and display them in common areas as a constant reminder. 
• Network protection: Set up proxy servers with robust security for your internet connections and install anti-spam solutions. 
• Monitoring: Monitor your security log for intrusions, suspicious activity and attacks. Conduct regular vulnerability scans of your network to assess your cyber risk. 
• Outsourced IT: Outsourced IT services can help protect your network from a breach. They can also provide training and keep you up to date with the latest scams. 

Teaching Older Adults to Steer Clear of Smishing Attempts

Teaching older adults how to approach text communication correctly is one of the most powerful methods of helping them avoid financial fraud and scams. Make them aware of the following cybersecurity practices for their personal devices:

• Avoid clicking on links: If links appear in a text message, only click on them if you initiated the original communication and are confident it comes from a trusted source. 
• Type web addresses out: Instead of clicking on a link that takes you to a website, type the website directly into the browser. 
• Check security certificates: You can check a website’s security status by clicking on the padlock icon in the left corner of the browser. The website should always begin with HTTPS, which means any information you share through the website remains private. 
• Refuse to send personal information over text message: Teach older adults that there is no need to share personal information over text or phone. 
• Call and confirm: If you receive a communication from a company, colleague or well-known brand, call and confirm the contact before acting on it. 
• Reach out: Many older adults experience shame after falling victim to a phishing or smashing scam. Encourage them to speak up and provide a supportive environment where they can share their experiences. 

What to Do if You’re a Victim of Smishing

It’s important to know what to do if you become a victim of smishing. Stay calm and take the following steps:

1. Change your passwords: Once a hacker has access to your device, they have access to your passwords. Change them as quickly as possible, then log out of the device. 
2. Disconnect and call IT Support: As soon as you realize what’s happened, disconnect from all networks immediately to limit the spread of malware. Smishing can happen to anyone and your outsourced IT team is the best prepared to deal with it. Contact them and follow their instructions. They will let the rest of the organization know. 
3. Have your device scanned: If you clicked on a suspicious link, hackers might have downloaded malware onto your device. Ask an IT professional to scan your device for viruses and malware. 
4. Report the attack: There are several organizations you can report the attack to, including your local police station and the federal trade commission. Your IT support provider can guide and support you through the process. 
5. Stay alert: Be aware of future attempts to breach your device, as the hackers may try again. Report anything suspicious and verify any links before you click on them. 

Contact Prelude Services for Complete IT Services

Healthcare organizations have massive amounts of data to manage and cybersecurity is one of many IT processes you need to consider. Prelude Services provides an inclusive IT service for your healthcare facility, including 24/7 desktop support, mobile device management and HIPAA IT risk assessment, ensuring your data are as safe as possible. 

If you’re looking for a reliable, safe IT service you can trust, look no further than Prelude Services. We believe that IT services in healthcare should be accessible and reliable so you can care for patients without stress and downtime. Please reach out to us today to learn more about how we can streamline your IT processes, manage your network and keep your data safe. 

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Understanding cloud security can help your nursing home or senior living center keep sensitive data protected. Many facilities with residents and patients handle sensitive information, including medical records, prescriptions and medical histories, making proper cybersecurity essential.

Explore what cloud security is, the risks of transferring data to the cloud and why you might want to consider using better cloud security.

What Is Cloud Security?

Cloud security is a cybersecurity discipline that aims to secure cloud computing systems. Cloud security helps keep data private and safe from leaks across various platforms, applications and infrastructures. While the type of cloud security depends on the client, it is often composed of multiple categories, including data security, governance, data retention and business continuity, legal compliance, and identity and access management.

Cloud security protects applications and data held within the cloud and computing environments. Your company can implement suitable security measures and secure sensitive data with the proper protocol and technology. Implementing cloud security also tells your company what information might need to be secured. For example, private information like medical records or financial data will need adequate cloud security to protect patients from data theft.

How Does Cloud Security Work?

Cloud security offers reliable data protection for nursing homes and senior living facilities that must protect their patients. Cloud security has four main parts — data security, identity and access management, governance and legal compliance. 

1. Data Security

Data security covers the technical end of information platforms and aims to prevent threats of any kind. Companies may use various technologies or tools to create a barrier between unauthorized access points and the sensitive data hackers may want to steal. 

Regarding data security tools, cloud providers often use encryption, which scrambles data and makes it unreadable without an encryption key. If your data is lost or stolen, various encryption applications make the information meaningless, protecting your patients from identity theft. Many companies also use virtual private networks to cover employee and client internet usage.

2. Identity and Access Management

The second part of cloud security is identity and access management. This process manages accessibility across various user accounts, ensuring only those authorized to read certain information can do so.

Cloud security providers might use tools like managed authentication, such as multi-factor authentication, password management or access controls. Access controls restrict certain users from entering your system and potentially leaking or stealing patients’ data.

3. Governance 

Cloud security aims to protect patients’ information by adhering to rules and regulations for detecting, mitigating and preventing threats. One of the ways cloud security ensures governance is through threat intel, which tracks and prioritizes threats.

Cloud security practices value secure user behavior training and policy implementation. For example, your facility might create rules for information usage that all employees must follow. Information cannot be shared outside the facility, so the cyber security team can respond accurately to threats. Every data user must understand these policies.

Another way cloud security ensures governance is through data retention and business continuity. Many rules and regulations regarding cloud security require facilities to focus on recovery measures should they lose significant amounts of data. Data recovery measures should include backing up data or training employees on recovery instructions should they accidentally lose essential information.

4. Legal Compliance

The final part of cloud security is legal compliance. Legal compliance aims to protect user privacy at every point by ensuring all healthcare facilities follow the rules and regulations set by legislative bodies.

Healthcare organizations must adhere to these regulations to comply with the law, and especially as malicious hackers could try to steal user information for profit. Cloud security uses tools like data masking to hide all user’s identities through encryption.

Benefits of Cloud Security

Cloud security can help your facility in many ways, from increased visibility to improving platform threat detection. Here are six benefits of cloud security your nursing home or senior living center can enjoy:

1. Visibility: Many cloud security applications offer consistent protection and monitoring on all your cloud-based platforms. With so much visibility, your facility can remain aware of any possible threats or exchanges of information. 
2. Availability: Cloud security ensures your resources and applications are always available.
3. DDoS attack protection: Short for “distributed denial of service,” DDoS attacks target platforms by denying entry to intended users. Cloud security prevents such attacks.
4. Data security: Cloud security increases data protection through improved protocols and policies like encryption and control access.
5. Threat detection: Cloud security ensures your facility can detect threats more easily while assessing possible risks through end-point scanning and global intelligence.
6. Regulatory compliance: Cloud security meets regulatory standards for nursing home compliance needs, such as federal HIPAA privacy rules or specific state laws.

What Are the Security Risks of Cloud Computing?

Some common security breaches in cloud security might include risk to infrastructure through incompatible frameworks, internal threats like human error and misconfiguration of controls, or external threats like malware, phishing or malicious actors.

Here are five more common cloud security risks to keep in mind:

1. Visibility Loss

Many nursing homes and senior living centers use devices and applications across multiple departments and locations. The sheer amount of information your facility has to contain puts you at higher risk should that data be lost. A common risk with cloud computing is visibility loss — facilities lose access to information or can’t see who is accessing data.

2. Compliance Violations

With the increase in rules and regulations relating to private patient data, many facilities are at risk of compliance violations. Your healthcare facility must know where sensitive data is at all times, who has access to it and how it is processed and protected. Any careless transfers or non-compliance with regulations could have financial or legal consequences.

3. No Migration Strategy

Nursing homes and senior care centers need a strategy when sharing or transferring sensitive data. Without a strategy, you put yourself and your patient’s data at risk. If you plan to migrate to the cloud, have a plan for security before starting operations.

4. Internal Threats

Even if they do not mean to, employees, partners or contractors may pose a risk to patient information. If they lack the training to prevent leaks, they might accidentally expose your facility to malicious attacks, software, viruses or data theft.

5. Breaches of Contract

Many facilities hold contracts with partners who restrict shared data usage. You must know how information is stored and who can access the data. Moving data without authorization could sometimes breach a contract or non-disclosure agreement, resulting in legal consequences.

What to Look for in Cloud Security

When choosing a cloud security provider, looking for a company with your facility’s best interests is essential. Here are a few aspects to keep in mind:

• Transit and rest data protection: It is vital to protect data when it is being transmitted between you and your cloud service provider. Find a provider who can encrypt data at rest and during transit.
• Asset protection: Find a cloud service provider who understands your data center’s need for physical security, including storage, processing and management.
• Control and visibility: The right cloud security provider lets you always see your data and control who accesses it.
• Partner security: A good security provider provides accessible pathways to find and connect with partners and marketplace solutions.
• User management: A cybersecurity provider must give your facility the tools to secure users and prevent unauthorized interface access.
• Compliance: Cybersecurity providers must meet all requirements and regulations, whether at the federal or state level. They should follow industry best practices and hold certifications.
• Authentication: Reliable cybersecurity providers offer access through authorization and authentication services. For example, they provide two-factor authentication, identity federation and username and password assistance. 
• Operational security: An excellent cybersecurity provider can detect and prevent attacks through protective monitoring or vulnerability management.
• Personnel security: Choose a trustworthy provider to access your sensitive information and data systems.

How to Secure Your Cloud

Cloud security in cybersecurity is one of the most critical steps nursing homes and senior living centers can take toward protecting client information. Good security practices can prevent possible leaks or theft, from provider and enterprise cloud security to encryption of sensitive data or file-sharing protection.

Here are five of the best ways your facility can secure your cloud.

1. Encryption

There are different ways to encrypt your data. Information is most at risk when your facility wants to move data from one storage site to another. During the transmission of data, your patients’ information is vulnerable. Many facilities find help through a cloud security provider who can help them with three kinds of encryption — communications, end-to-end and sensitive encryption.

All kinds of encryption require a secure key from trusted partners who can access sensitive data. Keep a backup, and d not keep any information regarding encryption keys on the cloud. Changing keys regularly ensures patient information is as safe as possible.

End-to-end encryption is considered the best for facilities that house sensitive data. Without an encryption key, no outsiders without access can communicate with the server, see information or move data. While it is possible to encrypt data yourself, many facilities with large amounts of data find it helpful to use a cloud service provider that can help them store financial, sensitive and confidential information vital to their operations.

Keep in mind that encrypting non-sensitive data is usually not necessary. For example, files like graphics, videos or photographs may not need much protection. 

2. Configuration 

Configuration is another excellent way to secure your cloud. Many breaches come from obvious or basic places where your company might be vulnerable. To protect sensitive data, try securing basic spots by decreasing the risk of breaches.

When securing vulnerable areas, consider the following:

• Default settings: Always change the default settings of any security applications or infrastructures. Default settings leave you susceptible to hacking attempts.
• Cloud storage buckets: Always close the bucket so hackers cannot access content through a URL.
• Vendor security controls: Always turn on security controls from a cloud security vendor. Not using their security options poses a high risk to patient information.

3. Basic Cyber Security

All staff members, healthcare providers and employees at your facility should understand basic cybersecurity practices. From using strong passwords and protected devices to avoiding Wi-Fi access with virtual private networks, employees can build basic cybersecurity knowledge at every step.

Here are a few basic tips your employees should know:

• Passwords: Ensure all employees use strong passwords with a mixture of letters, numbers and symbols.
• Password managers: Consider using a password manager so all employees can store and manage passwords.
• Device protection: Protect all devices using strong passwords and software, including tablets, phones and computers.
• Backups: Always back up your devices consistently. Without backups, data can easily be lost or stolen.
• Permissions: Change permissions on all programs, software and applications to prevent unauthorized access to information.
• Anti-virus software: Install anti-virus and anti-malware software on all devices and applications. Even with basic cybersecurity knowledge, viruses and malware may pose high risks to your facility. 
• Wi-Fi practices: When accessing information on public Wi-Fi, use a device with a virtual private network. Public Wi-Fi could leave your information vulnerable to outside hackers or malicious software.

4. Storage and File Sharing

While it may be tempting to use easy file-sharing and storage services, many of these applications could lead to data leaks. Always manage your permissions well on these platforms by ensuring employees and patients cannot see other names, directories or files. Use encryption software when possible for added protection.

5. Check Provider Security

While you may trust your cloud security provider with your data, you should always double-check that their system is secure. Ask basic questions about their services and stay aware of how your provider addresses risks. You can inquire about security audits, encryption, data retention and access management. These tools will help protect your data from possible breaches, leaks or thefts.

Find Help With Cloud Security From Prelude Services

At Prelude Services, our reliable IT security, support, planning and management services help healthcare providers across the United States secure their private information. We support various facilities and organizations needing data and information protection assistance.

With the right technology and software, your facility can secure sensitive information at every step and provide better service to your patients. Prelude Services has the tools to prevent possible leaks or information thefts. Contact us today to speak to a representative or explore our security services.

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Senior living centers must protect information regarding patients’ medical records, prescriptions, diagnoses and medical history. Most of this information is private and sensitive, making it essential to protect it from potential hackers or cyberattacks. 

Learning about the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), its importance and who needs to comply with HIPAA can help your facility protect information at every step. Senior living centers can take critical steps for protection, including staff training and internet security. 

What Is HIPAA?

HIPAA is a United States law that protects patients’ medical records from being shared with other parties without the patient’s consent. HIPAA sets a standard for privacy that healthcare providers, plans, clearinghouses, and business associates related to healthcare must follow at every step.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) implemented both the HIPAA Security Rule and the HIPAA Privacy Rule. The Privacy Rule ensures that healthcare-related industries and companies comply with HIPAA regulations, while the Security Rule protects additional health information outlined in the Privacy Rule.

Why Is HIPAA Important?

HIPAA is important in the healthcare industry because it protects sensitive patient information. Many residents cared for in a senior living center have various health issues, whether due to aging or preexisting conditions. Senior living center patients often require various medical provisions or prescription drugs, making it integral to protect sensitive information related to resident records. 

Any nurse, employee or staff member who works with seniors at nursing homes or living centers must have easy access to residents’ information to ensure each patient receives appropriate care and medications related to their condition. Should something happen, it is essential to have medical records on hand with information about allergies, prior illnesses and health problems or other relevant information. 

At the same time, easy access to patient information requires extra protection to prevent leaks or violations of patient rights. This is why HIPAA was created. Many of the benefits of the Act include the following:

• Patient control: All patients have complete control over their medical information, including who can see it or when it can be shared.
• Boundaries: HIPAA ensures safe limits for sharing and distributing patient health information.
• Safeguards: All providers and medical professionals related to the patient must protect residents’ health information privacy.
• Accountability: Anyone who violates the rules and regulations of HIPAA will be held accountable.

All patients deserve to know how their private health information will be used. Even older adults in nursing homes require boundaries and limits on information release and have the right to receive copies of records whenever asked. 

Who Must Comply With HIPAA Guidelines?

All companies, organizations, businesses and operations that handle protected health information must comply with HIPAA guidelines. For example, the following organizations must remain compliant with HIPAA rules and regulations:

• Health plans: Plans might include Medicaid, Medicare or other specific health programs.
• Healthcare clearinghouses: Clearinghouses include any billing services and companies that collect sensitive health information and process private data.
• Healthcare providers: Providers may include a dentist, surgeon, physician, pharmacy, hospital, clinic or nursing home. 
• Business associates: Businesses that handle health information include document shredding, medical equipment, data processing and data storage companies. 

While HIPAA specifically requires nursing homes to follow their guidelines, other senior living centers and care facilities may not be held to the same laws if they don’t specifically handle health information. Many communities with different models have their own regulations, as HIPAA may not apply to every organization. 

However, if your senior living facility handles any form or amount of healthcare information, it must comply with HIPAA guidelines. It is best practice to follow HIPAA regulations at every step in the process, no matter how much health information you contain. 

In many cases, some organizations may be confused when specific departments or sections of the company work alongside hospitals and healthcare workers who must comply with HIPAA. Following HIPAA regulations ensures patient privacy, and while HIPAA may not specifically name some senior living facilities, it is best practice to follow their guidelines regardless. 

All residents, staff members and healthcare workers at the senior living facility must comply with HIPAA regulations, including refraining from discussing patient information outside the workplace. Keep medical history and patient information private to prevent accidental leaks. 

How To Protect Senior Health Information

Protecting sensitive patient information requires adherence to rules and regulations from every nurse, employee and healthcare provider. Here are four steps to protecting health information in a senior living center.

1. Increasing Internet Security

Increasing your facility’s internet security is a great way to protect senior health information. Many facilities have done away with traditional paperwork filing, mailing or data entry, meaning technology has helped reduce the need for manual labor. However, the possibility of hackers and cyberattacks comes with the increased usage of computer systems and the quick transference of confidential information.

To comply with HIPAA, your facility needs secure software for sensitive information. Ensure you have the firewall applications to block ransomware, malware and phishing attempts. Many IT security companies and outside sources offer the protection assistance you need to fend off possible leaks and attacks.

2. Improving Staff Training

Training staff members, nurses, and all employees in your facility on HIPAA guidelines ensures you maintain compliance at every point. Proper training in HIPAA regulations, data protection and rules allows employees to refer to privacy guidelines when unsure of the next step. You can even have staff members take courses on protecting patient and resident privacy. 

3. Making a Contingency Plan

Make a plan of action should your facility accidentally leak sensitive information or experience a breach in security. Adding security and training measures can only go so far. Data breaches and privacy violations may be possible, but an action plan ensures your company knows what to do in the case of a leak. 

Make sure you track every investigation of a data breach to completion. It should also be possible for staff members to report incidents anonymously when needed. 

4. Securing Outside Access

Due to the nature of your senior care facility, you may have to work with various businesses, care workers, nurses, facilities and individual family members. Third parties often have short-term access to your documents, patient information and sensitive data. The more outside sources gain access to your facility’s private information, the more you must take care to protect that data. 

To secure outside access, be sure all partners sign an agreement with your facility. Do so for any third-party vendors, including but not limited to” attorneys

• Consultants
• Accountants
• Software companies and technicians
• Document destruction services
• Malpractice carriers 
• Telephone providers

All third parties are prohibited from selling or sharing patient information, according to patient rights outlined by HIPAA.

Find Help With Information Security At Prelude Services

Our IT management, security and strategic planning services at Prelude Services protect sensitive patient information. Our services are meant for healthcare providers, whether you work in senior living centers, long-term care, community service or affordable housing. Our secure IT software lets you protect patient information at every step of your facility processes. 

Data security and reliable technology are essential to us. Consider partnering with Prelude Service for all your information technology needs. Contact us today to speak to a representative.

The post How to Protect Health Information in a Senior Living Center appeared first on Prelude Services.

When caring for older adults, post-acute care is a reality. More than 40% of Medicare beneficiaries are discharged to post-acute facilities — an essential step in their recovery. The post-acute care programs’ efficacy dictates patient health outcomes in many ways, so IT services and post-acute care go hand in hand.

Access to current information and the most effective IT tools can improve patient care and streamline information sharing. Focusing on improving care transitions can help ensure older adults receive the post-acute care they need. With the proper care, they can take positive steps in their recovery. IT services for post-acute care facilities are a critical consideration.

Types of IT Services for Post-Acute Facilities

For patients to achieve the best possible health outcomes, post-acute care facilities must have the capabilities to coordinate and manage high-quality healthcare specific to each individual. Much of this care depends on the reliable transition of information, internally and externally.

Access to critical health information allows post-acute care facilities to provide better quality care to patients, whether identifying patients at risk of injury or having access to indicators of their recovery timeline to make further adjustments. Caregivers can provide preventive care and stay current with patient needs.

Types of IT Services that can augment post-acute care include the following:

Network Management for Post-Acute Care

Most businesses use computer networks, and monitoring and managing them is essential to maintain optimal performance and care for patients. Upgrading your IT systems is vital for data safety and backup in the event of a critical failure. Your post-acute care facility will still have access to valuable patient data so you can continue to provide high-quality care.

Management tools can keep your facility providing optimal patient care by outlining upgrade requirements. The accompanying design tool tailors your network infrastructure to your facility’s needs, ensuring you can expand your networks and perform as needed to meet your specific requirements.

Security is necessary for any business that holds data. Network management tools identify malicious software entering your network and resolve the problem before you experience data theft or damage.

Cloud Computing for Post-Acute Care

Managing, processing, storing and communicating patient data is crucial in a post-acute care environment. When caregivers can access up-to-date patient data from web-based applications, they have flexibility and confidence in their work, knowing they can tailor their approach to specific patients. Storing your data in the cloud can help you achieve this.

Anyone with authorization can access patient data with this simple cloud solution as long as you have an internet connection. It’s easy to expand and upgrade and saves you money and space on physical infrastructure.

Service Desk for Post-Acute Care

Your IT systems must work for you to provide quality post-acute patient care. A 24/7 service desk may be the answer, as you can contact professionals whenever an issue might affect your ability to provide patient care. There is no need to compromise what you do best with expensive downtime.

Hardware and Software Support for Post-Acute Care

Both hardware and software are necessary to keep your IT systems performing well. Choosing the right equipment and hosting your applications can be daunting without an IT service that provides hardware and software support. IT services can help your team stay productive and focused on providing the best care for your patients.

Why Post-Acute Facilities Should Outsource IT Services

Providing superior patient care is a top priority for post-acute facilities. There can be a disconnect when patients are transferred, compromising their care, as you lose access to vital information about their treatment. Outsourcing specialist IT services can bridge that gap and provide your facility with access to information, data protection and faster processes.

Some of the many benefits of outsourcing IT services for post-acute facilities include the following:

• Elevated patient care: Providing quality patient care is the primary goal of any healthcare facility. IT services and patient care are linked, and patient care improves when healthcare facilities can access their data immediately. This is especially important with post-acute facilities, where caregivers exchange data from one facility to another. Outsourcing IT services streamlines this process so caregivers can focus on patients.
• Enhanced scalability: Outsourcing IT gives you more flexibility for growth and change, as these professionals provide full scalability for your business. Instead of investing in static IT solutions, you can update your services as your needs shift. If you need to expand, for example, your IT partner already has the infrastructure to streamline the process.
• Efficient billing: Healthcare professionals rarely have time to focus on complex coding and billing procedures. Outsourcing medical billing can decrease billing errors, provide accurate medical insurance claims and reduce the risk of denied claims.
• Improved cybersecurity: Cybersecurity is crucial for businesses. If you handle patients’ data, it needs to be protected. Outsourced IT services provide that protection with innovative security solutions.
• Increased productivity: Removing the focus on IT challenges allows your staff to focus on their core competencies and give acute-care patients the full attention they deserve. They also have access to the data they need in real time, and with the information at their fingertips, they can make informed decisions about patient care without delays.
• Decreased costs: Partnering with a professional IT service means saving on the high costs of an in-house IT team. Outsourced IT services also have up-to-date equipment and resources at your disposal. IT service providers can work within your budget to help you accomplish your goals.
• Advanced compliance: The healthcare industry is bound by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy rule concerning data protection. Meeting these requirements can be challenging, but outsourced IT services have vast experience in data security compliance.
• Streamlined operations: IT challenges can be disruptive, especially for patient care. Outsourced IT teams can help prevent downtime and elevate your customer service — there is less chance of data breaches or inaccessible websites with professionals on your side.
• Enhanced access: Partnering with an outsourced IT provider gives you access to professionals in their field who can provide you with their specialized skills.

Contact Prelude Services for Post-Acute Care IT Services

Post-acute care facilities rely on IT services to provide patients with the highest standard of care. Prelude Services is here to assist you by providing IT services focused on helping healthcare providers navigate the rapidly changing industry landscape. Our innovative technology solutions are the perfect choice for post-acute care providers looking to improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary costs.

Our vast industry experience can strengthen your cybersecurity, manage your electronic medical records system and networks, and support your hardware and software. Our 24/7 service desk will help you reduce downtime, so you can focus on what you do best — caring for patients. We have a wide range of reliable options tailored to your specific need. Please reach out today to learn more about how Prelude Services can help you.

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As the world becomes more interconnected and digitally dependent, cyberattacks on computer systems, programs and networks become more frequent. That’s why cybersecurity is essential for safeguarding your personal information against theft and loss. It’s also critical because it helps preserve the lifestyle we all have come to know and enjoy.

Since hacking attempts, phishing schemes and data breaches are reaching new heights, we must take every measure possible to identify potential threats and protect our valuable data.

4 Critical Steps for Effective Cybersecurity

Although tools like firewalls, anti-malware software and other cybersecurity measures can help prevent attacks, your vigilance and attention to detail are an essential line of defense. Protecting yourself thoroughly boils down to staying proactive and taking an intelligent approach.

You can take a few specific steps for your cybersecurity, including:

1. Thinking before you click: Although some links or webpages may appear legitimate, they could be a phishing scheme that compromises your personal information. These schemes are tricks designed to have you reveal private details, like your credit card info, social security number and other sensitive information. Report suspicious emails by clicking the “Report Phishing” button in your Outlook client or manually forwarding a message to reportspam@atlasinformatics.in.
2. Updating your software: If you see an update alert on your electronic device, verify it’s from a trusted source and act promptly. Delays in updating your software can lead to potential vulnerabilities. Consider utilizing automatic updates when practical to ensure installation in a timely fashion.
3. Using strong passwords: While many users often construct passwords with easy-to-remember characters, these passcodes are usually the most vulnerable. The best way to choose a password is by avoiding common phrases, birthdays and other personal information. Avoid duplicate passwords for multiple accounts when possible.
4. Enabling multi-factor authentication: Protect yourself and your organization by utilizing multi-factor authentication (MFA). Most major service providers allow you to protect your accounts with MFA. Microsoft estimates that MFA can prevent 99.9% of the attacks on your email account.

Connect With the Experts at Prelude Services Today

Prelude Services is a cybersecurity and information technology (IT) provider specializing in health care facilities, assisted living and long-term care organizations. We offer cloud security, network management and courteous around-the-clock customer service to safeguard your organization’s valuable network and data. Contact our professional team today to learn more about our services and how they can benefit your organization.

Please don’t hesitate to call the Prelude Service Desk at 800-579-1047 with any questions.

The post How to Protect Yourself With Cybersecurity appeared first on Prelude Services.

Your senior living facility has access to several types of sensitive information. When you want to dedicate the best care to your patients, include cybersecurity in your practices. Discover how you can evaluate your cybersecurity measures and risk level and build a stronger system. 

How to Assess Your Senior Living Community’s Cyber Risk 

As holders of highly sensitive information, healthcare facilities must protect their patients and employees. Your organization likely has access to several crucial pieces of patient information, from their name and financial data to their identification documents and Social Security numbers. Hackers often target healthcare organizations because of this data’s value. 

Recovering from a data breach can be costly for healthcare facilities. The healthcare industry has the highest costs for data breaches, reaching around $10 million in March 2022. Knowing how to evaluate your cybersecurity risk can help you better protect your organization and older adult patients. 

1. Identify Common Security Risks 

When determining how to assess cybersecurity risk for your senior living center, understand the daily threats organizations face online. Some typical cybersecurity risks include: 

• Phishing: Phishing scams are emails or texts sent by hackers claiming to be someone reputable. These messages will contain a link that takes individuals to login pages, asking them to put in their information. The link and page have spyware, allowing scammers to steal login credentials and access sensitive information. 
• Malware and ransomware: Malware is software meant to harm or disrupt operations. It might cause systems to crash or steal data in the form of ransomware. Malware might have immediate effects or go undetected for extended periods. You can encounter this breach through scammers, unprotected sites and insecure networks. 
• HIPAA breaches: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) breaches are especially relevant in the healthcare industry. The act protects personal information, and a breach compromises the security of these private details. Healthcare organizations must adhere to HIPAA regulations, but a lack of education or proper procedures can cause accidental or intentional leaks. 

Once you understand your risks, you can begin to assess the systems you have in place. You might recognize a hole in your current protection, highlighting an increased risk. 

2. Audit System Accessibility 

Managing accessibility can be challenging for any organization, including those in healthcare. With increased usage of personal devices and cloud services, tracking accessibility helps ensure quality security for your patients. 

Auditing your online systems can help you understand current and past employee accessibility. While you might need to audit to maintain legal compliance, you can also use this data to locate past employees still accessing your systems on personal devices or unknown devices going undetected. 

3. Locate Legacy Systems 

Because technology evolves so quickly, your software and hardware vendors might stop supporting your systems. For hardware, this can include no longer selling parts or maintenance services. Software vendors might stop supplying updates with necessary security measures. 

Your legacy systems are these unsupported tools you still use. While they still might function well, they can pose increased security risks. Without modern updates protecting against new threats and attack trends, your software might become more vulnerable. Older hardware is more susceptible to crashes and outages. You can assess your cybersecurity risk by identifying how many legacy systems you depend on for daily operations. 

4. Evaluate Data Recovery Plans

While legacy hardware can crash because of its age, data loss and disasters can occur on many fronts. Power outages and natural disasters can damage hardware and servers, leaving you without the essential programs and data you need to function. Hackers and malware can disrupt operations by shutting down systems and causing them to malfunction. Equipment can be expensive to replace, so analyzing your data recovery plan can help you avoid costly disasters. 

You can assess your data recovery plan by examining: 

• Local threats: Your region might have unique risks that can lead to a higher likelihood of damaged facilities or equipment. Do you experience frequent natural disasters, like tornados or hurricanes? Are you in a flood zone? Even extreme temperatures can damage servers or require more intensive care. 
• Geographic diversity: Keeping all your servers in-house or in one region can increase your risks of local threats. If something happens to your server facility, a lack of storage diversity can leave you unable to operate for extended periods. Diversifying your server locations can help you continue functioning when one facility cannot. 
• Backup plans: Ransomware and malware attacks can hinder access via physical disruptions. If you back up your data, you can avoid paying large ransoms. Data replication can help you maintain operations during system crashes, ensuring you can always access what you need. 

Comprehensive data recovery and disaster prevention plans can protect you from many threats and obstacles. Assessing this aspect of your cybersecurity procedures can highlight how well you can protect your senior living center data. 

Addressing Your Company’s Cybersecurity Risks

After assessing your organization’s cybersecurity risk, you can begin to act. Identifying weaker areas can direct your efforts, providing you with a clear plan to follow. Some other aspects to consider when strengthening your cybersecurity measures include: 

• Training employees: Your employees’ precautions and actions can decrease your risks. Teach them how to avoid common threats, like phishing schemes and unprotected public networks. Keep them updated on recent cybercriminal trends, like rises in ransomware. When they know how they can keep the organization safe, they can become significant assets. 
• Educating residents: Older adults are becoming more tech savvy. In 2021, 61% of people over 65 had a smartphone and 45% used social media. Because malware and viruses can spread through shared networks to access and infect multiple devices, educating your residents about common risks and threats can help maintain cybersecurity. 
• Using multi-factor authentication: When phishing and spyware can leave login credentials vulnerable, multi-factor authentication can prevent hackers from accessing your systems. Multi-factor authentication might require users to enter a one-time code sent to a different device when logging in. 
• Writing out security and compliance policies and procedures: After training your employees, provide a written copy of your standards and guidelines. If employees forget, they can refer to their handbooks to check how to proceed. In the event of legal issues, physical versions of expectations and even signed understanding agreements can reduce liability. 
• Partnering with a cybersecurity management expert: Many healthcare facilities lack access to in-house IT teams, making preventing cybersecurity threats challenging. When you work with a cybersecurity partner, they can handle every aspect of cybersecurity and risk management, so you can continue to provide the best care for your residents. 

Protect Your Senior Center Residents With Prelude Services

When you want to increase your cybersecurity, you need the right teams. Prelude Services specializes in IT services for healthcare providers like senior living centers. From software and hardware management to senior living community IT outsourcing, we offer comprehensive care. Our 24/7 service desk ensures you can get the help you need, regardless of the time or day. 

Contact us today to request more information on our services. 

The post How to Assess Your Senior Living Center’s Cyber Risk  appeared first on Prelude Services.

Anyone can fall victim to scams or fraud, but older adults are more vulnerable in many ways. Caregivers often provide a crucial barrier to protecting older adults from financial fraud. Experts estimate older adults lose over $36 billion annually to fraud and financial abuse. Some fraudsters specifically target older people, especially if they are no longer working or have disabilities that cause them to rely on outside assistance in crucial areas of their lives.

Like any scammers, those who target older adults prey on specific vulnerabilities unique to their community. With the help of caregivers, it’s possible to find ways to protect seniors from fraud and allow them to enjoy their hard-earned savings.

Why Do Older Adults Often Fall Prey to Scams and Fraud?

Older adults can be vulnerable to fraud, making them easy targets. Fraudsters often exclusively target older people for various reasons. Many older adults have a high net worth due to their conscientious savings throughout their working lives.

Older adults are often relatively isolated, and loneliness makes them more likely to accept offers from strangers, as they’re looking for someone to talk to. They are also more likely to find technology challenging, and their lack of understanding can open them to internet fraud. Declining physical health and cognitive functioning can make older adults more vulnerable to scammers. They are either concerned about their health or struggle to make rational decisions under pressure. Caregivers need to understand how to prevent senior fraud and safeguard the well-being of their charges.

Types of Scams and Fraud That Target Older Adults

To stay ahead with senior fraud prevention, knowledge of prevalent scams is vital. Fraudsters are always coming up with new ideas, but some of the more common scams we need to be aware of include:

• Prizes and sweepstakes: These scams falsely inform the older adult they have won or could win a large sum of money. Fraudsters request the person send them money for taxes, processing fees or shipping costs. Once they have completed the online transfer, the person doesn’t receive their prize. 
• Tech-support scams: These scams are generally a pop-up on a computer, email or phone call. The fraudster tells the older adult there is a virus or something wrong with their computer or phone. They then ask the victim to do an online money transfer to rectify the problem. 
• Lottery scams: With this scam, older adults receive an email or phone call telling them they’ve won a large sum of money or an expensive prize, such as a new car. Scammers require an upfront payment before they’ll transfer the prize.
• Investment scams: Focusing on short-term investments, scammers attempt to convince older adults to invest money online in items such as real estate, precious gems and annuities. In reality, these aren’t investments and don’t provide the returns promised. 
• Charity contributions: These scams request older adults donate money to a false charity, often after national disasters. Websites often look incredibly professional, and scammers make requests via email, phone, text or even in person. 
• Identity theft: This scam involves stealing an older adult’s identity to apply for credit cards or loans and open bank accounts. Identities are easily stolen online, and fraudsters often target older adults due to considerable savings and good credit scores. 
• Grandchild in trouble: In this scam, fraudsters call older adults to tell them a grandchild or other relative has been injured or is otherwise in danger. The scammer then requests they transfer money online to assist. If asked for more information, the scammer claims there isn’t the time or that if they provide the person with more details, their loved one will be in more danger.
• Precious metals scams: These scams commonly start with emails and videos forecasting economic collapse and claiming owning precious metals is the only way to survive. Older adults are encouraged to purchase precious metals with their savings at a massive markup. 
• IRS schemes: These scammers contact older adults, claiming they have a tax debt that requires an immediate payment and that they’ll be arrested if they don’t pay. The scammer may attempt to obtain personal banking information or money.
• Widow schemes: These scammers contact recent widows or widowers and claim their deceased spouse owes money. Fraudsters scan obituaries looking for new targets and claim to be financial institution representatives. They prey on older adults’ grief to solicit funds. 
• Insurance scams: This scam involves selling older adults policies that duplicate existing coverage. Some fraudsters may hold legitimate licenses and encourage older adults to ensure they have insurance policies for healthcare and funeral costs by purchasing unnecessary policies.
• Health remedies: Marketing miracle cures online to older adults already concerned about their health, these scammers solicit money in return for ineffective medical treatment. 
• Romance scams: Targeting lonely older adults online who may have lost a spouse, these scammers create relationships with older people and then ask for money.

Fraudsters are creative and constantly develop new methods to ply their trade. We must take fraud prevention seriously to protect older adults from life-changing losses.

How to Avoid Senior Citizen Scams and Frauds

Although we may not know how to stop senior scams, there are ways to protect older adults from fraud. Stay current on online fraud to identify if it happens to an older adult in your care. Older adults are not necessarily aware of the potential dangers online or on social media. Educate and inform them so they can alert you if they suspect something is amiss. Remind them that people online may not be who they say they are. Some other tips to protect seniors from financial fraud are as follows:

• Ensure only trusted loved ones and financial advisors handle older adults’ banking: Older adults should be discouraged from making large purchases or investments without consulting a trusted third party first. 
• Investigate new friends and romances: If an older adult meets a new friend or engages in a new online romance, ensure they are protected. Check that they have updated cybersecurity to prevent phishing. 
• Ensure all their banking information is protected: Encourage older adults not to give out personal information online or over the phone, including their Social Security numbers and credit card information.
• Check their credit card statements regularly: Verify with older adults at least once a year that their credit reports are accurate. 
• Remove their names from call lists: Telemarketers can be extremely convincing. Ideally, you want to limit their access to older adults as much as possible. 
• Exercise extreme caution when shopping online: Help older adults recognize secure, encrypted websites and encourage them to shop exclusively from well-known stores. 
• Identify suspicious emails: Emails informing older adults that they’ve won a prize or that there’s a national disaster on the way should be marked as spam and discarded. Encourage older adults to alert you if they receive unknown emails. 
• Ensure older adults have identity theft protection: Monitor financial and personal information and have access to assistance if needed. 
• Take a keen interest: Stay up to date and check in regularly with older adults so you can monitor their situation and help them feel connected. 

Contact Prelude Services for IT Services

Managing IT operations and cybersecurity risks in a senior living facility requires much time and expertise. With older adults significantly at risk for online fraud, providing them with the best tools possible to ensure their well-being is a necessary step.

Prelude Services can provide practical and cost-effective solutions for all your IT and cybersecurity requirements. We offer services for all types of senior living facilities, from skilled nursing facilities and assisted living organizations to independent living homes and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). If you’d like a free consultation about our extensive managed IT services, don’t hesitate to contact us for dedicated, 24/7 customer service.

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