Summer is a time for relaxation and recharge, but for healthcare practices, it can also bring unique security challenges. With staff taking vacations, offices operating on modified hours, and increased reliance on temporary or remote workflows, your practice may be more vulnerable to both physical and cyber threats. At BlueCore Technologies, we understand how critical it is to keep your operations secure year-round. Here are our top tips to help you maintain strong security during the busy vacation season.
Review and Update Access Controls
Whether you’re dealing with reduced staff or bringing in temporary workers, it’s essential to ensure that only the right people have access to sensitive data and systems.
- Audit user permissions and remove access for former employees or third-party vendors no longer working with you.
- Use role-based access to limit exposure to protected health information (PHI).
- Require two-factor authentication (2FA) for all staff accounts, especially those accessing systems remotely.
Be Aware of Increased Phishing Threats
Cybercriminals often take advantage of slower summer operations to launch phishing attacks or target unattended networks.
- Educate your staff on identifying suspicious emails, links, and attachments.
- Use email filtering tools to reduce spam and block known threats.
- Test your team with simulated phishing emails to keep awareness sharp.
Secure Remote Work Tools
If any of your staff are working remotely during the summer, ensure they’re doing so securely.
- Require VPN access to internal systems.
- Ensure devices are encrypted and up to date with the latest security patches.
- Prohibit the use of public Wi-Fi for accessing sensitive systems unless a secure connection (like a VPN) is in place.
Have a Backup & Recovery Plan
In the event of a breach or system failure while staff are away, having a reliable backup plan can save you time, money, and reputation.
- Ensure automatic daily backups of critical data, including EHRs and patient billing information.
- Test your recovery procedures to confirm you can restore operations quickly if needed.
- Store backups off-site or in the cloud, with strong encryption and access controls.
Partner with a Trusted IT Provider
Summer doesn’t mean taking a break from security. In fact, it’s the perfect time to assess vulnerabilities and reinforce your defenses. At BlueCore Technologies, we specialize in IT services for healthcare providers—ensuring your systems remain secure, compliant, and reliable all year long.
Want help securing your practice this summer? Contact BlueCore Technologies today for a security assessment or to learn more about our managed IT solutions.
Call: (615) 807-1266
Email: support@bluecoretech.com
