Email Encryption has become an important asset for healthcare organizations in a world where cybersecurity is a necessity. Although it doesn't seem like the most fancy or complex protection tool, it can be an amazing resource for email security, and may have been able to prevent the Sony Entertainment cyberattacks if the organization had utilized it.
Encryption is used as a protective measure for many mechanisms in the corporate world, and SearchSecurity reported that any kind of organization can take advantage of email encryption software. But what exactly can encryption do and how should healthcare organizations find a secure email provider?
Understanding encryption According to Slate, encryption is a necessary part of the tools and protocols we use today, whether these be electronic payments or digital communication. The source highlighted how encryption has even become a part of Apple and Google smartphones.
The term "encryption" refers to a layer within any program to jumble data that will be transferred from one place to another. The source noted that the process relies on mathematical algorithms to protect stored data. A combination of the contents of the message and the "key" or password keep the encrypted information safe. Unfortunately, according to the Pew Research Center, less than 20 percent of Internet users actively use encryption. For the remaining 80 percent, using email to send sensitive information - PHI and PII, addresses, payment data or anything that could be incriminating if someone found out about it. - can be a huge risk.
Healthcare organizations, in particular, should be using email encryption software to protect themselves from any intruders. Cyberattacks are no longer just a possibility - they are practically inevitable for all organizations.
Knowing the necessary features SearchSecurity reviewed the characteristics of encryption software that companies need to keep in mind when researching this potential investment. Features vary depending on the program, and corporations must look for tools that will benefit them the most.
Support for internal and external users is one crucial feature that companies need to consider. According to the source, they can either choose to implement encryption for internal email users alone - meaning those within the organization - or extend these protections to patients and business partners, those who will be receiving email on the other side.
Usability is another feature that the source insisted was important to consider. " The practice most appreciates the ease with which emails can be encrypted and sent using Protected Trust ", states Melissa Sheffield, of Agnini Family Dentistry.
Protecting email
Organizations can't just worry about protecting their own employees and data - they have to also keep in mind the information and interactions between themselves, other companies and patients. To ensure that communication is safe, they can exchange keys with trusted outside entities before sending messages or make arrangements for a trusted partner to manage security keys.
Encryption needs to be updated as it evolves, just as people should change their personal passwords every few months. Although this method can be confusing for some employees, using secure email providers as a guide may help businesses realize what might be the best way to implement the encryption system.
Other ways of ensuring protection for email users include giving them information on how to use security precautions themselves. This can be as simple as reminding them not to open emails from unfamiliar users and to keep passwords complex and updated. This is a valuable educational tip to share with patients and 3rd party partners.
There are many ways to ensure email security. If an organizations is researching how to improve its cybersecurity program, they will benefit from contacting a secure email provider and also review HIPAA policies and procedures. A documented cybersecurity plan is necessary for all healthcare organizations, as no information is safe from being compromised in a breach.
David Bailey is Senior Vice President at Protected Trust.
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