Healthcare is a necessity each and every American utilizes from the moment they’re born. Each and every doctor visit, procedure, medication decision and more is documented and stored in the healthcare system servers.

Like anything these days, private information may not be so private. Heathcare companies are one of the prime targets of cyberattacks thanks to the mountains of personal data stored on their servers, as well as how vulnerable those same servers often are.

Medical Servers are Targets 

The truth is healthcare is one of the most attacked by cyber criminals. The goldmine of private information that they hold makes them a treasure trove to any who can gain access. Once this private information is compromised, criminals can sell it on the dark web which empowers the buyer to commit identity theft by impersonating you to open loans, credit cards, and more.

How to Protect Yourself

Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to mitigate your risk of exposure, prevent medical identity theft, and to recover from an often inevitable data breach.

Have data monitoring in place

First, you need to have a professional identity and financial monitoring system in place to alert you not only when your private information is used, but also when it is exposed online. This will allow you to immediately take countermeasures to lock down your information and secure your assets before too much damage is done. 

Freeze your credit

Second, you can lock down your social security number by calling each of the credit bureaus and asking for them to put a freeze on your credit. This will stop any and all credit runs from occurring which would stop loans and credit cards from being opened in your name. If you need to run a credit check for your own personal use, then you can call the bureaus and inform them of the credit run. Once the credit check is ran, then the credit bureaus will immediately lock back down your credit again until you state otherwise.

Watch out for scams

Lastly, watch for any email, phone calls or text messages which may come to you. There is a chance that people may be reaching out in an attempt to scam or trick you into giving out more of your private information. They can impersonate your healthcare provider or bank because they have that information and therefore can help gain your trust in giving out additional information.

Remember, if you are ever in doubt about the conversation or message, go directly to the source. Find the direct line to your bank or healthcare provider and reach out to them for answers.

Don’t live in fear

Healthcare data breaches are becoming far too prevalent, but you don’t need to live in fear. Unfortunately, with the technology and assets at the hands of cyber criminals it’s no longer a matter of if, but when your information is compromised. You don’t need to live in fear, instead, take the steps necessary to protect you and your family.