Top 3 Ways Hackers Breach Dental Practices

Top 3 Ways Hackers Breach Dental Practices

And How to Protect Your Yourself

Gary Salman

CYBERSECURITY MIGHT not be the first thing you think of when running a dental practice, but hackers know your office is a treasure trove of sensitive patient information. From insurance details to Social Security numbers, to driver’s licenses, to highly regulated data controlled by New York State and federal laws, dental practices are prime targets.

Understanding how hackers breach networks—and how to prevent these breaches—can protect your practice from financial, legal and reputational damage. Patient data is highly regulated under New York State and federal Law (think HIPAA). In more than 90% of ransomware attacks, hackers will steal some or all your patient data regardless of whether you are using the cloud or your own server. The hacker’s modus operandi includes stealing your data, destroying backups, and encrypting all computers and data—basically “bringing you to your knees.”

Here are the top three ways hackers gain access to dental practice networks and simple steps to reduce the risk.

1. Human Risk: Clicking Links, Attachments or Giving Up Credentials

Hackers frequently exploit human error. Phishing emails are one of their favorite tools—posing as legitimate messages, they trick employees and doctors into clicking malicious links, opening infected attachments or providing login credentials. For example, you might receive an email that looks like it’s from a supplier asking you to update payment details, but in reality, it’s a trap. These emails are now being crafted by leveraging artificial intelligence, so the days of improperly worded emails are gone.

Preventative Measures

• Train Your Team. Cybersecurity awareness training is essential and required under HIPAA. Utilize cloud-based dental-specific training platforms to educate your entire team on the various forms of threats and scams.

• Implement Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). Even if credentials are stolen, MFA adds an extra layer of security, requiring verification via a code sent to a phone or email.

• Use a Password Manager. Encourage staff to use strong, unique passwords stored securely in a password management tool.

• Phish Your Team. Leverage platforms that create and send simulated phishing emails to test your team on their knowledge and readiness to identify a malicious email, phone call or text message.

2. Vulnerability Exploitation of Computers and Firewalls

Hackers exploit outdated software, vulnerable technology and poorly configured firewalls to break into systems. Many dental practices unknowingly leave their networks exposed because they don’t regularly update software, perform daily vulnerability scans or replace aging technology. They are simply relying on anti-virus software to detect and stop threats. Unfortunately, most anti-virus software can be defeated by advanced hacking groups. Detecting and eliminating vulnerabilities often thwarts a hacker’s ability to get into your network.

Preventative Measures

• Regular Software Updates. Ensure operating systems, dental practice management software and all devices are updated with the latest patches. Outdated software is like leaving the front door unlocked. Use real-time vulnerability scanning technology to detect these vulnerabilities and automatically fix them. Scanning quarterly or annually is not effective.

• Secure Your Firewall. A properly configured firewall acts as a digital gatekeeper, monitoring and blocking unauthorized access. Have a cybersecurity company “pressure” test your firewall to determine if it is vulnerable to a hacker.

• Conduct Vulnerability Scans. Daily vulnerability scans and penetration testing conducted by a cybersecurity company can identify and fix weaknesses before hackers exploit them. Hackers are targeting you hundreds of times per day.

• Have Full Visibility into Cyber Risk. Ultimately, you are responsible for your security. Leverage third-party platforms that identify, mitigate and report all cyber risk so you have clear transparency into your cyber risk. You can’t simply trust that your IT company is doing this. These platforms should provide a cyber risk score, show you key performance indicators, and help you understand your overall security posture so you can make educated decisions, based on real data, for your practice.

3. Third-Party Breaches

Hackers also target the third-party vendors you work with—such as billing companies, practice management software vendors, insurance providers or even IT service providers—to gain access to your network. If these vendors are compromised, your practice could be collateral damage.

• Vet Vendors Thoroughly. Ensure third-party vendors follow robust cybersecurity protocols. Ask about their data protection measures and request regular security audits.

• Limit Vendor Access. Provide vendors with only the data they absolutely need and nothing more. Always understand where your data is located and who has access to it. Make sure you sign a Business Associates Agreement with all vendors that have access to or store your data.

• Use a Cybersecurity Partner. A cybersecurity company can evaluate third-party risks and set up safeguards to minimize exposure.

Why You Need Both an IT Company and a Cybersecurity Company

While IT companies focus on keeping your technology running smoothly—managing hardware, software and dayto-day troubleshooting—cybersecurity companies specialize in protecting your network from threats. Think of your IT company as the builders of your digital office and your cybersecurity provider as the security team guarding it.

Having both ensures your practice is well-equipped to stay productive and secure. IT companies typically lack the advanced tools and expertise needed for cybersecurity, such as vulnerability scans, threat detection, credentialed security experts and real-time monitoring. By partnering with both, you cover all bases: reliable operations and robust protection.

The risk of a cybersecurity breach in dental practices is real, but it’s manageable with the right precautions. By addressing human error, patching vulnerabilities, and mitigating third-party risks, you can protect your practice and your patients. Engaging both an IT company and a cybersecurity company ensures your systems are both functional and secure, giving you peace of mind to focus on delivering excellent patient care.

Don’t wait for a breach to happen. Invest in your practice’s cybersecurity today. Your patients, reputation and bottom line depend on it.