December 2024 Newsletter
Update Your Software or Face HIPAA Sanctions
We discussed this briefly in August, but it’s worth remembering before the end of the year: For anyone working in healthcare, it is absolutely vital that you keep your software up to date with the latest security patches. In accordance with the HIPAA Privacy Rule, failure to apply security patches to any machine used to store or transmit PHI is a violation of HIPAA guidelines and can result in large fines.
We understand updating your software can seem like a hassle, but HIPAA violations are no joke. In 2014, Anchorage Community Mental Health Services was forced to pay $150,000 after unpatched software led to 2700 individuals having their data exposed. At Favarger Consulting we can help you update your systems as smoothly as possible, protecting your patients’ privacy and your business’ future. Contact us today so we can review your systems together and ensure everything in your practice is HIPAA compliant.
For more information on HIPAA Privacy Rule, see this article.
Be Careful of Fake Safari URLs
A common tactic among cybercriminals is to disguise dangerous malware as safer “.pdf” and “.doc” file types. Based on their extension, Safari may think these files are safe and could end up downloading a more dangerous file type to your computer, introducing malware into your system.
To prevent your computer from opening these potentially dangerous files after downloading, simply open Safari and click on the Safari menu at the top of your screen. From the Safari menu, go to Preferences and click on the General tab at the top. Under this menu will have a setting to “Open ‘safe’ files after downloading.” Un-check this option, and Safari will no longer automatically open files of potentially dangerous software after it has finished downloading onto your computer.
We’re Never Too Busy to Talk to You
We know every piece of data, every program, and every tool you use is vital to your success. When those tools break down, you need someone in your corner who’s ready to help you with problems big and small—that’s where Favarger Consulting comes in. The next time you have a problem with the technology your company relies on, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re never too busy to talk to you.
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