Episode 314: [Tech Tips] WiFi & Network Security – What You Need to Know to Protect Your Practice

Welcome solo and group practice owners! We are Liath Dalton and Evan Dumas, your co-hosts of Group Practice Tech.

In our latest episode, we take a look at WiFi in group practice settings and what group practice owners should know to keep their practices safe.

We discuss risks, both classic and new, around WiFi and network security; whether it’s ever okay to connect to unsecured networks on a device that handles PHI; ways to mitigate risk and to be proactive; good cyber hygiene; setting up a trusted network; VPNs; what to do when you don’t have access to the router; and what to use as a last resort.

More Information

• Forbes article “The Real Risks Of Public Wi-Fi: Key Statistics And Usage Data”

• The Dangers of Using Public Wi-Fi (and How To Stay Safe)

• Health Sector Cybersecurity Coordination Center’s Mobile Device Security Checklist

• • see ‘Limit Connectivity’: “Device owners should be cautious about which networks they connect to, especially public or other untrusted networks. Connection to residential wireless networks should leverage the use of a VPN, should be through access points and modems that are of reputable brands, and have adequate security features properly configured and updated with the latest firmware/operating system software. Devices should ideally only be used to connect to corporate enterprise infrastructure via an approved and properly encrypted wireless network.”

  • (The “hardening” items in the checklist are provided for and supported in PCT’s Device Security & Remote Workspace Security process for group practices through Group Practice Care Premium)

PCT Resources

• PCT’s Group Practice Care Premium service with assignable staff HIPAA Security Awareness: Remote Workspaces training for all team members plus

• • access to Remote Workspace Center with step-by-step tutorials & registration forms for securing documenting Remote Workspaces

  • assignable staff HIPAA Security Awareness: Bring Your Own Device training

  • access to Device Security Center with step-by-step device-specific tutorials & registration forms for securing documenting personal & practice-provided devices

  • direct support & consultation service, Group Practice Office Hours