Disclaimer: This blog article was written by an AdvancedMD partner. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of AdvancedMD.
Citizen Lab recently announced they discovered dozens of individuals whose iPhones had been compromised by spyware known as Pegasus. Pegasus is just one example of malware that, once installed on a mobile device, can secretly record phone calls, access the camera, access passwords on the phone, and track the phone’s location. The difference here is that there was no user click through required to initiate install—the malware installed itself automatically.
Very often when we write about malware, we are talking about receiving an email or other communication that entices us to click on a link or an attachment in order to initiate install. The malware in question here is much more sinister. Known as a “Zero-Click” attach, the malware is sent to an iPhone as an iMessage and simply installs itself.
Each day new vulnerabilities are being discovered in technology, and each day our data is more and more at risk. In the past, we’ve heard that Apple products are safe and do not pose the same level of risk as other brands. This was true when the cell phone and computer markets were dominated by Microsoft and Android. Now, with the large footprint Apple has both in cell phones and desktops, these devices have become a much bigger target for hackers looking to access personal data.
Having a documented HIPAA Security Manual and Risk Mitigation plan helps your practice put measures in place so you can be proactive about securing data. An important takeaway from the Pegasus event though is that, no matter what processes we have or preventative actions we take, we can never be 100% protected from security breaches.
The key is to be prepared in case there is a breach. When a HIPAA event occurs, the fist thing an investigator will ask for is your most current HIPAA Security Manual and HIPAA Risk Mitigation Plan. If you are not able to produce documents that demonstrate a good faith effort to protect your records, the government is required to fine you. These fines can be in the tens of thousands of dollars.
If you have not completed your HIPAA Security Manual and Risk Mitigation plan, TLD Systems can help with the process. It can not only help reduce your risk of a HIPAA event, but can ensure your are prepared in case there is one. For more information, please contact Dr. Michael Brody at TLD Systems.
http://www.tldsystems.com
[email protected]
(631) 403 6687
