Stolen medical data accounts for 43 percent of identity theft

Study points to the lack of security for tablets and smartphones used in healthcare facilities.


A new study said 43 percent of identity theft cases in 2013 were the result of stolen medical information, according to an article on the Low Cards website.

The Fourth Annual Patient Privacy and Data Security report from the Ponemon Institute pointed to the lack of security for electronic devices, such as tablets and smartphones, used in healthcare facilities.

 "Despite concerns about employee negligence and the use of insecure mobile devices, 88 percent of organizations permit employees and medical staff to use their own mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets to connect to their organization's networks or enterprise systems such as email," the study said.

According to the study, most healthcare organizations that practice the "bring your own device" policy do not require employees to use anti-virus programs on their tablets and phones. This makes the devices vulnerable to high-tech thieves who want to steal information from the programs.

Read the article.

 

 



April 1, 2014


Topic Area: Information Technology


Recent Posts

Infrastructure Issues: Assisting Mobility-Challenged Visitors

Parking constraints, mobility needs and patient experience priorities are elevating arrival pathways as a strategic planning issue.


Willis-Knighton Medical Center Upgrades Chilled Water Plant

The medical center sought upgrades through Trane to add capacity, control comfort, increase redundancy and reduce energy costs.


NYC Health + Hospitals Reports Data Breach

It appears that the unauthorized actor may have gained access to NYC Health + Hospitals systems due to a security breach at a third-party vendor.


Redefining What Mental Health Facilities Look Like

A new Mental Health and Addictions Center uses design and architecture to challenge the stigma and create a more open model of care.


Managing High-Volume Laundry Operations 

Tips and tricks one director has learned in three decades of managing a large, high-volume laundry operation.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.