While digital technology has brought about significant service and operational improvements in veterinary practices, it has also resulted in a growing number of cyberattacks and threats. Breaches can result in everything from all your data being eliminated to confidential financial information about pet owners being released into the dark web. It can disrupt business, discredit your practice, and hurt your reputation not to mention finances. What can you and your team do to reduce the risk of a cyberattack?

1. Regularly update software.

Obsolete software often contains vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit. Ensure that all software, including your practice management system, antivirus software, and operating system, are always updated to the latest versions. Regular updates not only provide new features but also fix security bugs.

2. Train employees.

One of the biggest threats to cybersecurity is human error. All employees should be aware of potential cyber threats and how to avoid them. Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees on safe online habits, phishing scams, and the importance of strong passwords. (At the end of this article, you’ll find links to free cybersecurity resources, including training. Read on…)

3. Adopt strong password policies.

Weak passwords are one of the most common causes of data breaches. Encourage employees to use complex passwords and change them regularly. Implementing multifactor authentication can also add an extra layer of security.

4. Secure your Wi-Fi network.

Unsecured Wi-Fi networks are an open invitation for hackers. Ensure your practice’s Wi-Fi network is encrypted, hidden, and password protected. Also, consider setting up a separate network for clients to prevent unauthorized access to the practice’s main network.

5. Backup your data.

Regular data backups can save your practice in case of a ransomware attack. Ensure that all important data, including patient records and financial information, is backed up regularly in secure external storage or cloud-based systems.

6. Invest in cyber insurance.

While preventive measures are crucial, having a safety net in the form of cyber insurance can mitigate financial losses in the event of a cyber-attack. Cyber insurance can cover costs related to data recovery, customer notification, and potential legal liabilities.

7. Have an incident response plan.

In the unfortunate event of a breach, a well-documented response plan can limit damage, and reduce recovery time and costs. This plan should outline how to isolate affected systems, who to notify, steps to recover lost data, and how to analyze the breach to prevent future incidents.

More information and free resources – including training – to support and build your cybersecurity plans are available through CISA (the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency). In addition, CISA created StopRansomware.gov, with free resources for organizations of any size to protect themselves from becoming a victim of ransomware and knowing what to do before, during, and after an attack.

Cybersecurity should be a top priority for every veterinary practice. By implementing robust security measures and fostering a culture of cyber awareness, you can shield your practice and clients from potential threats.

To free you up to focus on important aspects of your business, like cybersecurity, please know RBT CPA professionals are available to handle your accounting, tax, audit, and business advisory needs. Give us a call to learn more.

RBT CPAs is proud to say 100% of its work is prepared in America. Our company does not offshore work, so you always know who is handling your confidential financial data.