Cyberattacks targeting health care organizations are on the rise. According to OCR Director Melanie Fontes Rainer, securing electronic protected health information (ePHI) is more important than ever. Organizations that fail to address known vulnerabilities put patient data—and their reputation—at risk.
Why Phishing Is a Big Threat
Phishing is one of the easiest ways cybercriminals gain access to health care systems. It happens when attackers send emails or messages that look legitimate, tricking recipients into:
- Sharing passwords or sensitive information
- Clicking malicious links
- Opening harmful attachments
Even a single click can compromise your entire system.
Spotting Phishing Attempts
Health care professionals should watch for:
- Unexpected messages asking for urgent action
- Emails requesting passwords or account verification
- Sender addresses that are unfamiliar or slightly off
- Spelling or grammar mistakes
- Unexpected links or attachments
Red flags often appear in messages about billing, password resets, or patient records.
Your Role in Protecting ePHI
Every team member is a line of defense. Staff should:
- Avoid clicking suspicious links or attachments
- Verify unusual requests through trusted channels
- Report suspected phishing emails to IT or security teams
Training and awareness are just as important as technology.
Tech Tools That Help
Even the best-trained staff need strong technical safeguards. Key tools include:
- Email filters and spam protection – block phishing messages before they reach inboxes
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) – adds a second layer of login security
- Regular software updates & security patches – close vulnerabilities before attackers exploit them
- Endpoint protection, intrusion detection, and data loss prevention – monitor activity and prevent unauthorized access
Simulated phishing tests and periodic risk assessments can help staff recognize real threats and improve your defenses.
Real-World Consequences
Phishing attacks can be costly—financially and legally. For example:
- Solara Medical Supplies, a Durable Medical Equipment company, paid $3 million after attackers accessed 8 employee email accounts via phishing
- The attack exposed ePHI for 114,007 individuals
- OCR investigated the incident, highlighting the need for both staff training and robust technology
Protect Your Practice with TLD Systems
TLD Systems is here to help health care organizations stay ahead of cyber threats. Visit Booth 414 at the FPMA SAM Meeting for assistance implementing a HIPAA Security Plan.
Take home a Phishing Prevention Checklist for Health Care Organizations—a practical resource to help your practice avoid becoming the next victim.
Contact TLD Systems at
(631) 403 6687
Or visit us at the FPMA SAM conference booth 414 to pick up the Phishing Prevention Checklist for Health Care Organizations
Read Comments