Healthcare is a critical sector of our economy, but it’s also one of the most vulnerable. Naturally, security guard companies in Toronto are equipped to handle their particular security threats. See what these healthcare security threats are right here.
The Threats That Toronto Security Guard Companies Handle
#1: Ransomware
Many would be surprised to know that security guard companies in Toronto have dealt with ransomware as a threat. Ransomware encrypts data on a computer or device and demands payment from the victim in exchange for the key to decrypt it. Sometimes, ransomware will even delete all the data on a computer or device if payment isn’t received within a specific time frame.
#2: Cyber Extortion
Cyber extortion is a threat that affects almost every industry, but it’s especially prevalent in healthcare organizations. It can come from phishing attacks or web exploits that allow hackers to steal credentials or infect computers with malware that will enable them to run computer commands without users’ permission.
#3: Phishing Attacks
Phishing attacks are another form of cyber extortion that targets users through emails or websites posing as legitimate businesses or organizations. Phishers will try to trick recipients into giving up their personal information by sending fake emails that appear to come from legitimate companies or services but contain malicious links or attachments designed to download malware onto users’ computers.
#4: Medical Device Hijacking
Medical devices are often used to treat patients, but they can also be dangerous if they’re not adequately secured. They’re connected to the internet and can be hijacked by hackers, who could use them to cause serious harm to patients. Hackers could launch attacks on a hospital’s computer systems by compromising a networked device.
#5: Unsecured EHRs
The rise of electronic health records (EHRs) has given hospitals unprecedented access to patient information. However, this access risks compromise due to the lack of security on many EHRs. Healthcare providers must ensure that their EHRs aren’t left open and vulnerable to hackers, who may try to steal sensitive information about patients or vendors.
#6: Malicious Insiders
The number one threat to healthcare security is malicious insiders. This threat is dangerous because it can be challenging to detect and prevent. An insider could be anyone from a doctor, nurse or receptionist to an administrator or manager. In addition to stealing personal information and medical records, insider threats can tamper with equipment and make dangerous mistakes that harm patients.
#7: Patient Impersonation
Patient identity theft is one of the most severe threats to healthcare security. It occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to personal information such as names, addresses, social security numbers, financial information, and medical records. Once this data has been compromised, it’s used for financial fraud or identity theft.
#8: Eavesdropping Attack
Eavesdropping attacks occur when someone intercepts sensitive communication between two parties without their permission or knowledge by using a device such as a laptop or a smartphone with a hidden microphone or camera (video). These devices are planted in public places such as hospitals. However, they can also be left on patients’ bodies in the hospital (body-worn devices).
#9: Social Engineering Attacks Against Patient Data
Social engineering is a type of attack that targets human users. It uses manipulation to gain access to a system, often by impersonating someone with authority and tricking them into giving up sensitive information. For example, an attacker may pose as a patient at a hospital or doctor’s office and request that their medical records be transferred to another location. It’s done in person or through email, faxes or mail.
#10: Data Theft from Wearable Devices
Wearable devices are more convenient than traditional medical equipment and are easier to use and wear over time. These devices have become increasingly popular in the healthcare industry. Still, they are also vulnerable to theft by hackers who may take advantage of their small size and lack of security features.
Protect your property with Citiguard Security, Toronto’s leading security guard company. We have provided our clients with premium security guard services since 1981, delivering effective and reliable solutions for businesses and individuals in Toronto and surrounding areas. We’re recognized for our professionalism, organization, reliability, excellence and customer service, establishing ourselves as the go-to team for commercial, government and construction industries. We offer uniformed security guards, mobile security guard patrol, gatehouse security, parking control, concierge security and risk analysis. Get the protection you need with our Toronto security guards by calling us at 905-264-1333.
