RANSOMWARE---A NEW THREAT

Ransomware??  What is it?  Ransomware is a method by which computer hackers deny a healthcare provider access to his or her own electronic patient records.  Ransomware describes an event in which files containing patients’ protected health information (PHI) are attacked, corrupted, and made inaccessible.  The healthcare office later receives a “ransom note” offering restoration of access to patient records in exchange for payment of ransom money.

In case your office is hit by this growing threat, remember HIPAA regulations require reporting this and all other breaches of patients’ PHI.  Additionally, dental practices and other healthcare providers must identify potential threats to patients’ PHI and implement steps to avoid any breaches of security.  Among the steps should be frequent back-ups of patient information with safeguards in place to protect back-ups.  Many dental offices outsource IT work to an expert to be certain all aspects of security for electronic records are in place, current, and working properly.  If you are not certain that your patients’ PHI is fully protected, consider  contracting with an IT professional.

For more information concerning protection of patients’ PHI, go to the Department of Health and Human Services website and view the Security Rule Educational Paper Series.