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Vetting Cyber Security Companies

Vetting Cyber Security Companies

There’s no doubt that technology has simpliied the healthcare industry. Electronic records, wearable health tracking devices, robotic surgeon assistants, telehealth, and more have vastly improved patient care and provider eficiency. Unfortunately, the integration of...

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The Difference Between HIPAA and HITRUST

The Difference Between HIPAA and HITRUST

When an organization is overwhelmed and underfunded, it may need help to protect sensitive data. In the healthcare industry, information leaks can lead to ethical and legal violations, including noncompliance with federal laws. Outsourcing IT security solutions to a...

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HITRUST r2 Certification Benefits

HITRUST r2 Certification Benefits

Finding a trustworthy IT partner is a game-changer, especially for healthcare organizations with limited resources. When you need a company to protect sensitive data from slipping through the cracks, seek one with the gold standard of certifications - the HITRUST r2....

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What is a HITRUST Certification?

What is a HITRUST Certification?

The Health Information Trust Alliance, or better known as HITRUST, supports healthcare organizations to reach their information risk management and compliance objectives. More than 80% of US hospitals, 85% of US health insurers, and many other covered entities and business associates leverage the HITRUST approach today. In order to show our never ending commitment to data security, SmartBase Solutions has maintained its HITRUST certification for many years. Paired with being HIPAA Compliant, we help our clients in the healthcare industry protect their sensitive information from cybersecurity threats. We are frequently asked what HITRUST is or why being certified matters. We put together this easy to understand guide to provide clarity on why it is important to us to be HITRUST certified. What it means to be HITRUST Certified? To achieve HITRUST Certification, companies like SmartBase Solutions undergo an extensive assessment. The assessment evaluates all processes and procedures, as well as the implementation of those processes and procedures and how they’re being managed and measured. The objective is to ensure that HITRUST standards are being met and that we are taking the proper steps to protect our customers’ sensitive data. A HITRUST Certification is valid for two years with an interim […]

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Cybersecurity Month – Security Best Practices

Cybersecurity Month – Security Best Practices

In efforts to keep online users safer, October has been deemed Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Every year there are countless victims of cybercrimes, such as ransomware attacks and phishing scams. Training your coworkers and employees on cybersecurity is crucial to staying protected from threats. Updating coworkers on the newest threats and refreshing their memories on some common security tips could help prevent significant data loss. Share these best practices with your team and have a safe Cybersecurity Month! Beware of suspicious email addresses Did you know that one in every 99 emails is a phishing attack? Phishing scams can appear at any moment and are a constant threat for many businesses. Be sure to educate your coworkers on how to identify a phishing email and what to do if they receive one. Only click on trusted links A single click on a malicious link could be all it takes for a cybersecurity breach. There is harmful software out there that begins downloading the moment you click that could have access to your data in moments. Never click on links or attachments that you did not expect to receive or appear suspicious in any way. Watch for common identifiers in an email, […]

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Protect Your Business Against A Ransomware Attack

Protect Your Business Against A Ransomware Attack

Ransomware attackers can go after businesses of any size. They use ransomware to take your business data or operating system hostage and refuse to release it until you meet their demands. Being the victim of a ransomware attack is a bad situation to be in and it’s imperative to be prepared for such attacks. Hackers are always looking for small gaps in business security. You can greatly reduce the likelihood of ransomware attacks with these proactive tips. Never Open Suspicious Attachments Whether you know the email sender or are unfamiliar with their email address, do not open attachments if you have any hesitation or something feels “off” about the email. Some ransomware attackers will take the identity of coworkers or others you frequently email to gain trust in hopes that you will open their malicious attachment. Always think twice before clicking on an attachment and encourage your employees to use the same caution. Don’t Give Out Personal Information Ransomware attackers will need your personal information to gain access to your data. There are many ways to keep your data safe, such as keeping your personal information, files, passwords, and similar items secure. Test Your Firewall and Security Regularly Regularly test […]

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6 Ways to Keep Your Data Private

6 Ways to Keep Your Data Private

Having a data breach is a nightmare for any business to experience. The repercussions of not keeping your company’s information secure can be costly, result in lost information, and damage the reputation of your business. Data risks can come from a multitude of areas. Phishing emails, unsecure networks, and other threats to your information can show up at almost any time. Use these six tips to keep your data private and secure. 1. Securely store your physical documents Cyber-attacks and threats are more common, but leaving out important and private information easily accessible in physical form could still be a risk. All documents with private information should be stored in a locked cabinet. You should only allow employees who are trusted and routinely need to use the documents access to these secure places. If you step away from your desk, you should secure any sensitive information. When it comes to disposing of your old documents, avoid throwing them in the garbage and always use a shredder. 2. Keep passwords safe and secret Using a complex password may be difficult to remember at first but could save your data from being compromised. Don’t share your passwords with coworkers and be sure […]

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