News reports recently have discussed IT security incidents impacting other health systems across the country, including in Omaha. Nebraska Medicine and UNMC IT and Information Security teams are on high alert to ensure our online information systems are protected against any potential threat.
IT and Information Security are looking at its toolset to see if they need to further tighten any protections on the med center’s info systems. Currently, the tools appear to be working correctly and keeping the system safe.
“But as we know, it only takes one vulnerability and one exploitation,” said Lisa Bazis, chief information security officer. “We’re asking colleagues to continue to stay vigilant for the safety of our patients and our online information systems.”
Here are some key things to do that can help keep our information systems secure:
- Discuss and drill downtime procedures with each team.
- Validate that the extended downtime documentation for clinical areas is up to date and that the team understands its role.
- Validate that BCA (business continuity access) computers are working.
- Don’t click on a link or attachment in an email that looks suspicious or is from someone unknown.
- Report suspected phishing email attempts by clicking the Report Phish button in Outlook.
- Do not plug a personal removable media device, such as cell phones or hard drives, into company-owned computers and workstations.
The threat of cyber incidents is never-ending. After enduring its own cyber incident, Nebraska Medicine and UNMC Information Security helped draft the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Healthcare System Cybersecurity Readiness and Response Considerations.
Information Security will be updating its site to reflect any information or changes to the organization, as well as events, learning opportunities and ways to keep colleagues safe at work and at home.
“We’re counting on everyone throughout the organization to help keep us and our patients safe and secure, and I want to thank you for your continued diligence,” Bazis said.