What happens when healthcare giants falter in the face of cyber threats? Today, we dive into the critical need for better cybersecurity investments, continuous training and education and robust cybersecurity standards. We will explore the fallout from UHG’s cyber incident and break down three fiery letters from Congress demanding accountability and stricter regulations for cybersecurity practices in healthcare. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/464...
Jun 28, 2024•51 min•Ep. 464
Today, we're diving into a topic that might keep you up at night and might make you reconsider your relationship with your Wi-Fi router. Picture this: your internet goes down, and it's not just a blip—it's a full-blown blackout. We're talking no Netflix, no Zoom meetings, and definitely no online shopping. We’ll unravel the chaos that ensues and discuss how you can keep your cool and your business running smoothly when the digital world decides to take a nap. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/463...
Jun 21, 2024•48 min•Ep. 463
Join us as we debunked some common myths about what Security Risk Analysis isn't and then cruise through the seven essential steps to conduct a complete and thorough SRA for any organization. It’s not just a one-off IT review or a checkbox on compliance forms—it’s an ongoing, dynamic process. From identifying what you need to protect to managing how you protect it, each step builds on the last to fortify your defense against the digital wild west. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/462...
Jun 14, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 462
Today we dive into the world of compulsive clickers—the folks who just can't help but tap on every tantalizing link that winks at them from their inbox. It's not just a harmless habit; these clicks can lead to some pretty sketchy places. Imagine a world where every click could be a potential minefield, threatening your digital safety with every tap. But here's the kicker: can we change these click-happy habits? Let's explore whether it's possible to turn a reckless clicker into a prudent, pause-...
Jun 07, 2024•49 min•Ep. 461
Imagine juggling the intense world of cybersecurity where you're constantly putting out digital fires, with trying to keep your own mental batteries charged. It's like being a superhero who also needs to take some me-time. Our discussion dives into how we can manage the high-stakes of cybersecurity and stress-packed jobs while also making sure we don't crash and burn. We’ll talk about everything from rebooting your brain with a dose of humor to the serious implications of cyber threats on mental...
May 31, 2024•59 min•Ep. 460
It is time to review the annual Verizon Data Breach Investigaton report. First, we will hit the big notes from their summary. Then, we can add in a few tidbits from the bigger report details. We'll break down key statistics, discuss emerging threats, and offer insights into what these findings mean for the health sector and HIPAA privacy and security programs. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/459
May 24, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 459
After the big cyberattack on Change Healthcare, there’s a hot debate about making Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) a must-have for all public access points. With Congress getting involved and experts pushing for tougher security, it’s clear that better safeguards are needed to keep our healthcare data safe. This shift towards mandatory security measures shows just how serious cyber threats have become. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/458...
May 17, 2024•48 min•Ep. 458
Who's on the hook for breach notifications in healthcare? Recent cybersecurity incidents like the massive Change Healthcare data breach have left providers scrambling and seeking clarity. The tangled relationships between Covered Entities and Business Associates make it tricky to figure out who's liable, especially when cyber incidents ripple down the vendor chain. This raises big questions about the contents of Business Associate Agreements and clarifications on who's responsible for what, ensu...
May 10, 2024•56 min•Ep. 457
The U.S. healthcare sector is facing significant changes with new HIPAA rules boosting privacy protections, particularly for reproductive health. At the same time, the industry is tackling serious cybersecurity issues highlighted by a major ransomware attack on Change Healthcare. This dual focus on strengthening legal compliance and enhancing data security underscores the urgency of protecting patient information and maintaining trust in healthcare systems. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/456...
May 03, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 456
In the world of cybersecurity, small businesses have their own set of unique challenges. As AI technology becomes more common, using AI in cybersecurity sounds promising, but it's crucial to handle it wisely to avoid new risks. These tools are powerful, but they need to be used carefully because they can also open up new kinds of cyber threats. Small businesses need to build a strong culture of security, making sure everyone is up to speed and constantly testing their defenses against attacks. I...
Apr 26, 2024•58 min•Ep. 455
Aristotle once said, “Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” That's totally spot on when you think about cybersecurity threats and how sneaky cybercriminals can be. These attackers plant their harmful seeds and just hang back, waiting for the right time to take advantage of old weaknesses. Their patience and careful planning mean they can strike effectively, sometimes after years of waiting, showing just how tricky it is to handle digital security. It really highlights why we need to be on...
Apr 19, 2024•50 min•Ep. 454
One Friday night in September last year, a massive hack at the MGM Grand caused quite a stir in Las Vegas. Cybercriminals used tricky tactics to slip through the cracks, infiltrating the network, and disrupting services at the hotel and casino. It's a wake-up call for everyone to step up their security game and stay one step ahead in this fast-changing world of cyber threats. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/453
Apr 12, 2024•57 min•Ep. 453
MSPs are like the backstage crew for your business's IT show, handling everything from network management to cybersecurity. But here's the kicker: while they're busy protecting you, they've got to make sure they're not accidentally opening the back door for trouble with their own tools and business practices in the process of delivering their services. Security is a shared responsibility. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/452
Apr 05, 2024•58 min•Ep. 452
In an increasingly interconnected and data-driven world, the importance of rigorous vendor vetting cannot be overstressed. Vendors ticking a box saying that they use a framework for data security and compliance isn’t enough anymore. It is a critical due diligence process that helps clients build secure, compliant, and mutually beneficial business relationships, minimizing risks and enhancing overall business performance. And with the recent Change Healthcare attack, vendors can expect to receive...
Mar 29, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 451
As Change Healthcare ransomware attack unfolds, concerns are escalating regarding patient care and safety, pushing the Healthcare Sector Coordinating Council's (HSCC) 5 Year Strategic Plan into the spotlight. Donna and David talk with Gary Salman, CEO of Black Talon Security, on the ongoing situation, what is known and unknown, and its potential long-term effects. With the attack exacerbating issues within the healthcare system and highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures, ...
Mar 22, 2024•48 min•Ep. 450
For more than a decade, Donna has immersed herself in the plethora of sessions from the National HIPAA Summit, extracting a wealth of insights into the present and future landscape of HIPAA. Today, she will impart her top three takeaways from this year’s Summit, essential knowledge for navigating the road ahead. Buckle up folks, because these insights are far from trivial. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/449
Mar 15, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 449
Healthcare is inherently about trust; trust between patients and providers, trust in the efficacy of treatments, and increasingly, trust in the technology that underpins modern medicine. However, this trust is under siege by an evolving landscape of cyber threats. Today, we tackle the critical status of healthcare cybersecurity and the concerted effort the Health Sector Coordinating Council Cybersecurity Working Group has developed to transition the industry to a stable posture over the next fiv...
Mar 08, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 448
The rapid advancement of AI could soon eclipse our understanding, with its capability to predict and even manipulate human behavior. Today, we will dive into how AI is reshaping our understanding and preparedness for the digital threats lurking around the corner. Plus, NIST just released guidance that can be used to help improve the healthcare sector’s cybersecurity posture and assist with achieving compliance with the HIPAA Security Rule. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/447...
Mar 01, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 447
OCR recently announced a jaw-dropping settlement that should have every healthcare professional on high alert. An insider breach that had staggering repercussions, leading to a monumental $4,750,000 settlement and a two year CAP. HHS has also released new cybersecurity resources and guidance and more is to come. There is no excuse anymore folks. Cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility and OCR’s enforcement of privacy and security failures is picking up. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/446...
Feb 23, 2024•44 min•Ep. 446
Imagine your cybersecurity measures as the immune system of your body. Just like our bodies are constantly exposed to germs and viruses, your business is exposed to a barrage of cyber threats. Cyber insurance is like health insurance for your company's digital health. We are joined today by John Miller of Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, exploring the crucial intersections of healthcare, cyber coverage, and the corporate responsibility of protecting sensitive data. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/4...
Feb 16, 2024•56 min•Ep. 445
HHS has adapted CISA’s Cybersecurity Performance Goals, released in March 2023, for healthcare entities to better protect those in the healthcare sector from cyberattacks. These voluntary goals aim to strengthen cyber preparedness, improve cyber resiliency, and protect patient health information and safety. In this episode, we will review the HPH CPGs as they will be the basis of the proposed HIPAA Security Rule changes slated to be released later this year. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/444...
Feb 09, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 444
It’s no secret that small businesses face challenges in understanding and keeping up with the rapidly changing cyber threat landscape. Today we’ll discuss some of those challenges and review new free resources from NIST and CISA coming out in 2024 that can help SMBs manage and improve their cybersecurity programs. Buckle up, it’s going to be a busy year. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/443
Feb 02, 2024•50 min•Ep. 443
We all know that OCR is the HHS department that oversees and enforces HIPAA to ensure the protection of individuals' healthcare information. However, more and more states around the country are also making efforts to protect their constituents’ personal information and hold companies accountable for their poor data security practices. Today, we discuss recent HIPAA enforcement actions taken on businesses by the NY State Attorney General’s Office. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/442...
Jan 26, 2024•57 min•Ep. 442
The number of ransomware attacks impacting critical services, compromising personal information and attackers requesting higher and higher ransoms continue to rise. Today, we discuss this pressing issue, implications of ransomware attacks, the ethical considerations of paying ransoms, and the urgent need for preventative measures. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/441
Jan 19, 2024•49 min•Ep. 441
In today’s world, it's essential to recognize the importance of safeguarding your personal information. From the moment you wake up and check your smartphone to the minute you stream your favorite show or make an online purchase, your every digital move leaves a trail of data breadcrumbs. But, you have the power to take charge of your data privacy. You can start by taking part in Data Privacy Week, sponsored by the National Cybersecurity Alliance. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/440...
Jan 12, 2024•48 min•Ep. 440
It’s time to recap Donna and David’s 2023 HIPAA and cybersecurity predictions and hear what their crystal ball says about what to look out for in 2024. And, since AI exploded in 2023, we asked ChatGPT for predictions for 2024 too. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/439
Jan 05, 2024•47 min•Ep. 439
It’s no secret that healthcare is vulnerable to cybersecurity threats and patient privacy and safety are at risk. Good news! HHS recently announced a plan to enhance cybersecurity in the healthcare and public health sectors. Through various initiatives, including 405(d) and other HHS efforts, plans are starting to come together like pieces of a puzzle to help practices stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. It's time to get informed and take action to protect your practice, ...
Dec 29, 2023•57 min•Ep. 438
It's time of year again where we take some time off and let Bojan create a Help Me with HIPAA bloopers show of our mishaps and outtakes. Stick around to the end - we have a little surprise for you. Thanks to Bojan for his skill in making us sound so good every week. Thanks to all our listeners who have been with us and share our podcast with others. We are here because of you. As always, remember, HIPAA is not about compliance, it is about patient care.
Dec 22, 2023•12 min
CISA has released a mitigation guide to combat the critical and complex cyber threats affecting the Healthcare and Public Health Sector. It provides best practices, essential strategies and insights for safeguarding our healthcare infrastructure against ever-evolving cyber threats. Join us as we navigate through this important document, breaking down its complexities and highlighting its significance in the ongoing battle against cyber threats in the healthcare sector. More info at HelpMeWithHIP...
Dec 15, 2023•56 min•Ep. 437
You know how we say that hackers love to launch attacks during the holidays because that’s when most folks are distracted and in a hurry to begin their time off? Well guess what? There are already a few cyber attacks in the news just from this past Thanksgiving. Case in point, the recent ransomware attack that diverts ER ambulance services across multiple states. More info at HelpMeWithHIPAA.com/436
Dec 08, 2023•50 min•Ep. 436
