Network Solutions, formerly Web.com, is an American-based technology company now owned by Newfold Digital based in Florida. Newfold Digital helps customers build a digital presence.
Is Network Solutions email HIPAA compliant? It does not appear that Network Solutions is HIPAA compliant. While certain HIPAA compliant services security protocols are in place, there is no mention of a BAA on its website.
Learn about: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
Will Network Solutions sign a business associate agreement (BAA)?
Although Network Solutions and Newfold Digital mention HIPAA on unrelated page discussions, its website does not explicitly state whether it is HIPAA compliant nor if it will sign a BAA.
Network Solutions has two email plans available with several cybersecurity features. Both its Professional Email and Professional Email Plus plans include:
- A spam filter
- Click-time Anti-Phishing
- Firewalls
- Patch management security
- A virus scanning software
The Professional Email Plus plan also includes something Network Solutions calls Guard Encryption. Guard Encryption uses PGP (Pretty Good Privacy) technology. It lets senders sign an email; if that email is altered in any way en route, the recipient is warned.
Within Newfold Digital’s security policy, however, the company states, “While Newfold provides security features and technologies that customers can use to protect their personal data, customers are solely responsible for taking appropriate risk-based measures to protect the security of their accounts and personal data.”
Find out more: What is PGP? Pretty Good Privacy definition
Conclusion
Despite Network Solutions’ HIPAA compliant security features, particularly Guard Encryption, achieving full HIPAA compliance means signing a BAA. The absence of clear information about a BAA should make any healthcare organization hesitate before choosing Network Solutions. Moreover, Newfold Digital’s security policy explains that it is up to customers to protect their data.
Healthcare providers should contact Network Solutions for more information. Ultimately, providers must verify a vendor’s HIPAA compliant features and the existence of a BAA to ensure HIPAA compliance.
Read also: What is the purpose of a business associate agreement?
FAQs
What is a business associate agreement?
A business associate agreement (BAA) is a legally binding contract establishing a relationship between a covered entity under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and its business associates. The purpose of this agreement is to ensure the proper protection of personal health information (PHI) as required by HIPAA regulations.
What is HIPAA?
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets national standards for protecting the privacy and security of certain health information, known as protected health information (PHI). HIPAA is designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information and to ensure that healthcare providers and insurers can securely exchange electronic health information. Violations of HIPAA can result in significant fines and penalties for covered entities.
Who does HIPAA apply to?
HIPAA applies to covered entities, which include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. It also applies to business associates of these covered entities. These are entities that perform certain functions or activities on behalf of the covered entity.
Kapua Iao
