The healthcare industry holds the most sensitive data imaginable: our personal health information. Protecting this data from cyber threats is paramount, and the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) just took a major step towards that goal. As part of their new cyber initiative, HHS has laid out specific cybersecurity goals for healthcare companies, including doctors, billing companies, and medical SaaS providers./
One of the most critical goals emphasizes vendor and supplier cybersecurity requirements. This means healthcare businesses must proactively identify, assess, and mitigate the risks associated with third-party products and services. Your EHR vendor, cloud storage provider, and even your email system are all part of your digital ecosystem, and their security vulnerabilities can become your own.
Biometric Privacy Settlements Spark Insurance Coverage Battles
Companies that have settled lawsuits for millions of dollars under the Illinois Biometric Privacy Act are now having to battle their insurance providers to get their costs reimbursed.
Facebook agreed to pay $650 million in 2021 to settle a class action lawsuit alleging that the app violated the state’s biometric privacy law by using facial recognition technology until November 2021. In similar cases, Google agreed to pay $100 million, TikTok $92 million and Snapchat $35 million.
Website Data Privacy: Compliance Crossroads for Every Business
Your website is more than just a virtual storefront - it's a gateway to your brand, a hub for customer interactions, and a potential minefield for data privacy breaches. Whether you're a bustling manufacturing plant or a local legal firm, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of data privacy regulations can feel like walking a tightrope. But fear not business owners! Partnering with Vector Choice can be your key to achieving compliance and peace of mind.
Global Ransomware Attacks Reach Record High for 2023
Corvus Insurance, the leading cyber underwriter powered by a proprietary AI-driven cyber risk platform, today released its Q4 2023 Ransomware Report. Featuring data collected from ransomware leak sites, the report shows that while Q4 attacks were down slightly from Q3 2023, ransomware activity for the year surpassed 2022 totals by 68 percent.
The Boom of Remote Work: Embracing Flexibility While Mitigating Cybersecurity Risks
The shift towards remote work has transformed business landscapes forever. While companies reap the benefits of increased employee productivity and talent pool access, navigating the security intricacies of a remote workforce demands careful consideration. As a trusted MSP, Vector Choice is here to guide you through these challenges and ensure your data remains secure.
Why PCI Compliance Is Important for Your Business
2023 Year in Review Showcasing Efforts to Protect Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON – On Jan 17th 2024, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released its fourth annual Year in Review showcasing CISA’s work to protect the nation from cyber and physical threats, while working to increase the resilience of critical infrastructure Americans rely on every day. The 2023 Year in Review reflects on the agency’s accomplishments across its broad cybersecurity, infrastructure security and emergency communications missions as the nation and the world adapted to technological advances, spillover from international events and other major events. In 2024, CISA will continue to develop and deliver tools, training, technical expertise and other resources to help our critical infrastructure partners increase their own resilience and defenses against evolving risks.
2024: What PCI 4.0 Holds for Businesses
The payment card landscape is a battlefield, and in 2024, the armor gets an upgrade. Brace yourselves, business owners, because PCI 4.0, the latest iteration of data security standards, is charging towards mandatory compliance. But unlike a surprise audit, this isn't something to fear - it's an opportunity to shield your business from data breaches and build trust with your customers.
How Ransomware Payments Have Evolved in 2023
Unfortunately, based upon the data and trends, it is feared that ransomware incidents have not yet peaked, and with cyber criminals taking more of a fire hose approach these days, a broader range of companies and industries are getting hit. That’s just one of the many insights Marc Grens, co-founder and president of DigitalMint Cyber, shared with us during a recent conversation about the trends his team has observed in the last twelve months.
2024: New Data Breach Reporting Requirements Take Effect
2024 is looming, and for businesses handling customer data, it brings a significant regulatory shift: the amended FTC Safeguards Rule takes full effect on May 13, 2024. This isn't just a minor housekeeping update - it's a game-changer for data security and privacy practices. So, whether you're a small startup or a sprawling enterprise, it's time to buckle up and understand what's coming down the cybersecurity pike.
Deciphering AI Risk Insurance: Beyond Cyber Coverage
As digital transformation accelerates, insurers face new challenges, notably the rise of AI risk insurance. This article from Program Business Marketplace examines AI Risk’s implications for the insurance sector, drawing parallels with familiar cybersecurity risks faced by carriers, agents, and brokers.
Why CMMC Compliance Is Important for Your Business
Passkeys: The Beginning Of The End Of Passwords
27 Expert-Recommended Strategies to Master Cybersecurity: Safeguard Your Business in a Digital World
In today’s interconnected digital landscape, ensuring the security of your business’s data and information is paramount. Cyber threats constantly evolve, making it crucial for small business owners to proactively assess and address potential risks. A full vulnerability assessment (that includes more than our 27 suggested points below) is a vital step in safeguarding your business’s cybersecurity posture. We’ve developed this checklist has to provide small business owners with a practical guide to evaluating and mitigating risks associated with cybersecurity. By following these 27 points, you can identify vulnerabilities, enhance security measures, and protect your business from cyber-attacks.
Public Wi-Fi: A Convenience with a Hidden Cost for Businesses
A reliable internet connection is essential for any business. But when you're on the go, tempting as it may be, connecting to public Wi-Fi networks can pose significant cybersecurity risks. While convenient, these open networks often come with hidden costs, potentially jeopardizing your company's sensitive data and reputation.
NIST Warns of Security and Privacy Risks from Rapid AI System Deployment
The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is calling attention to the privacy and security challenges that arise as a result of increased deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in recent years.
Get Your Business HIPAA Compliant in 2024
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets forth stringent guidelines for safeguarding protected health information (PHI) and ensuring patient privacy. Achieving and maintaining HIPAA compliance is essential for healthcare providers, insurers, and any business handling PHI.
2024: The Year AI Takes the Lead – How it Makes Business Easier Than Ever
GLBA Compliance for your Financial Institution
Identity Theft: A Cybersecurity Threat to Your Business
In today's digital world, where information is currency, identity theft is a real concern for businesses of all sizes. It's not just about protecting your personal data; it's about safeguarding your business reputation, finances, and future. As a business owner, understanding this threat and taking proactive steps is crucial.