STRENGTHEN PASSWORDS Make sure each employee has a unique password that contains a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters , numbers and special characters to deter potential hackers from gaining access .
BACK UP YOUR DATA You can back up your files and data on a networkattached storage device , portable hard drive , USB flash drive or online through sites like Google Drive , Dropbox and Mozy . It ’ s a good idea to back up files daily , which will make recovering data easier in the case of cyberattacks or computer system damage .
USE SAFETY FEATURES Install antivirus and antimalware software for all of your devices and update when available . Use an encrypted virtual private network ( VPN ) when connecting to an unfamiliar Wi-Fi network to ensure a secure connection . These measures will help prevent your data from being compromised .
INITIATE CYBERSAFETY PROTOCOLS Educate your staff on the latest cyberthreats and include your practice ’ s cybersecurity policies and training protocols in your employee manual . Employ a multi-user system for the release of sensitive information . For example , make it a policy that two employees must sign off before providing anyone with secure information , such as passwords or file access , to prevent falling victim to a cyberscam and jeopardizing your computer system .
Preventing cyberattacks is the first step in protecting your practice . The second is to be prepared . TDIC offers comprehensive Cyber Suite Liability protection to help you respond to a full range of cyberincidents and cyber-related litigation .
To learn more , visit tdicinsurance . com / cyber .
MARCH / APRIL 2021 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 15