Antivirus and malware protection aren't just concerns for IT beginners. Healthcare organizations need antivirus software, and neglecting these security measures can have catastrophic consequences. The expenses associated with data loss, corruption, and system interruptions are much higher than the upfront and ongoing costs of implementing a security strategy.
While the term "computer virus" has existed for a while, malware is still relatively new to many computer users. Malware refers to software that can originate from various sources and potentially cause severe damage, steal confidential information, or turn your computer into a "zombie" for launching attacks on other systems.
The most alarming aspect is that malware often infiltrates computers without the user's knowledge. It can come from websites, hidden email attachments, or seemingly harmless links from compromised email accounts.
Read more: How to identify and prevent malware in healthcare
In a healthcare setting, where daily operations prioritize patient care and administrative tasks, it's necessary to balance productivity and security. Establishing and enforcing policies regarding computer usage is the first line of defense against malware. Everyone in the organization must understand that these policies exist to safeguard valuable data.
A combination of technical solutions and staff education is necessary to protect your systems. Small practices may need to rely on their chosen IT contractor for implementation, but understanding the fundamentals can help guide decision-making. There is no single solution to combat malware threats. A multi-layered approach involving various software applications, hardware configurations, and user policies must be consistently maintained to address the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats.
Related: Types of cyber threats
Implementing antivirus software is a significant step in defending against malware attacks. Choosing a centrally managed solution can streamline the process and ensure consistent protection across all devices. Consider the potential costs of data loss and system downtime resulting from a virus outbreak when comparing different antivirus options.
In addition to antivirus software, there are several other technical measures that healthcare organizations can implement to enhance security:
Establish rules prohibiting the connection of personal external devices to company computers or equipment. If not properly managed, USB storage devices, digital music players, PDAs, cell phones, and digital cameras can introduce vulnerabilities. Disabling USB ports on PCs can be an effective preventative measure.
Complement your existing email system with a spam filtering system. This will help block harmful attachments and links from infiltrating your network. If your email is hosted by another company, contact them to discuss options for spam filtering.
Isolate your network into different subnets or VLANs. This separation helps minimize the impact of a malware attack by containing it within a specific network segment. Medical devices connected to PCs should be on an isolated network to prevent spreading infections.
Implement centralized control systems to limit web surfing. Numerous hardware solutions in the market can be placed between your network and the internet provider to block known malicious websites and content. While this layer of protection is not foolproof, it significantly reduces the risk of malware infiltration.
Be cautious when using shared drives for file storage. Ensure that appropriate permissions are set to prevent unauthorized access. While drive sharing is convenient, it's necessary to balance accessibility and security.
Evaluate your firewall settings and close unnecessary ports. Smaller offices often tend to leave their internet connections wide open, leaving many unnecessary doors between the network and the internet. Closing these ports can strengthen your network's security posture.
Go deeper:
Kaspersky Labs, the Russian antivirus company, announced its departure from the United States following a recent ban by the Biden administration. The US government cited alleged ties between Kaspersky and the Kremlin as a risk to national security, leading to the prohibition of Kaspersky's software sales and updates after September 29. The decision also saw sanctions imposed on a dozen Kaspersky executives, though notably not on CEO Eugene Kaspersky.
Despite initially planning to challenge the ban in court, Kaspersky will now wind down its US operations starting July 20, 2024, resulting in the elimination of all US-based positions. This move follows earlier restrictions on Kaspersky software by US federal agencies and the military. In response, Kaspersky maintains that it poses no threat to US security and attributes the ban to geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. The company, which claims over 400 million users worldwide, asserts its commitment to protecting customers globally despite the challenges in the US market.
Antivirus software is a program designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware, including viruses, worms, and other malicious software. In healthcare, antivirus software helps protect critical systems and sensitive patient data from being compromised by cyber threats, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of protected health information (PHI).
Antivirus software is beneficial for HIPAA compliance because it helps prevent malware infections that could lead to unauthorized access to PHI, data breaches, and operational disruptions. By securing systems against malicious threats, healthcare organizations can maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of patient information as required by HIPAA.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide