Reputation and security are always vital assets when running a nursing home, but it becomes even more important when you hold large amounts of sensitive patient data. Nursing homes carry responsibility for the well-being and care of their patients; therefore, such facilities are required to follow strict guidelines, policies, and protocols to ensure that they adequately protect this information.
Unfortunately, many nursing homes have fallen victim to several cybercrimes over the years. Hackers can use stolen patient information to drain bank accounts, open credit cards, and even take out loans in their names. Considering the life-changing nature of these crimes, the importance of cyber security within nursing facilities has never been higher.
Knowing How Cyber Threats Have Evolved Over Time
Other than having cyber liability coverage to protect your business, knowing exactly how these attacks have changed over time can help you recognize future threats. To stay ahead of the curve, it’s crucial to be aware of how cybercriminals have evolved their techniques and tactics over time.
Cyber Threats in the ’50s and ’60s
In the pre-millennial era, cyber-threats were radically different from what we know now. Cybercrime was being carried out using telecoms even before the internet was invented. Throughout the 1950s and ’60s, hackers targeted telecommunication giants and how they transmitted their data. These hackers would intercept phone calls, change the line’s static to distort conversations, and even eavesdrop on private transactions to gain access to sensitive information.
While this tactic might not be so common today, it’s still crucial to be aware of this method. You can be unaware of the wiretapping taking place on your phone lines, leading to your company having sensitive data stolen or other important information being overheard.
Cyber Threats in the 70s and 80s
Computer virus attacks were first documented in the ’70s, even though the internet was still not developed. That being said, hackers would use floppy disks and discs to spread their malware onto others’ computers without them even knowing it. This type of attack is called a virus or worm and has evolved into more complex threats over time. Many people in the nursing home industry might not think that malware is still relevant, but this can still be a prevalent issue. Malware may lead to data loss, which can be just as damaging as a direct hack.
Cyber Threats in the 90s
By the 1990s, individuals were gaining access to modems and other technologies that would allow them to connect to the internet. This was when hacking moved from targeting local computers to essentially targeting individuals or companies connected to this worldwide web. This meant that cybercriminals did not have to be close by to a victim’s computer to find a way to get into them, which is why hacking has become one of the biggest threats to this industry.
Hacking Today
As a new decade sets in, cyber threats have evolved even further, affecting more people as the years go on. From online banking threats, digital extortion, ransomware, and identity theft, cybercriminals are using advanced methods to get into people’s systems to find even more personal information. If hackers are successful in their attacks, they can use this information for their financial gain or even sell it to others who may exploit it.
Protecting Your Business From Cyber Attacks
No one wants their business to fall victim to a cyber hack, and many organizations go under it simply because they do not take precautions to ensure that their information is safe. By creating a comprehensive plan that includes increased network security measures and having a proper protocol in place, you can create a system where your business will be able to ward off any potential threats. Following the tips listed below will help you improve your existing security measures and create a more secure network for your business.
Always update your software
Many cybercriminals do not utilize malware for their attacks anymore but instead, exploit outdated systems that lack the necessary security patches. By ensuring that all your software is updated to the latest version, you can fight off these types of threats and ensure that hackers cannot gain access to you through your system’s vulnerabilities.
Be aware of your incoming traffic
It’s essential to always be aware of the number of devices connected to your network, how much traffic they’re using, and if there is anything suspicious going on. If you notice an increase in bandwidth used or a device that shouldn’t be there, you should investigate this immediately.
Educate employees
Another critical step you should take to increase your business’s security is to educate your employees about cyber threats that are currently affecting businesses. Employees need to know what they can do to keep their personal information out of the hands of hackers and how it might affect the company if this happens. This understanding will help them avoid making careless mistakes, which can affect the business.
About Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance
Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance specializes in giving you insurance solutions that perfectly match your business and personal life. We provide insurance options that offer excellent coverage while remaining within your budget, based on a thorough understanding and assessment of your needs, circumstances, and financial capability. Find out more about how Rodrian Insurance, Affiliate of Robertson Ryan Insurance can fulfill your insurance needs. Call or text us at (262) 781-4750 or email us at info@rodrian.com.
