Web Content Filtering: Your First Line of Defense

At Med Tech Solutions, we consider it our responsibility to make sure we provide our customers with all of the IT tools they need for continued success. If you’ve paid any attention to the headlines, you know that cybercriminals continue to target healthcare organizations by deploying malicious malware, such as ransomware. Ransomware is expected to net cybercriminals $1 billion this year; and its growth shows no signs of slowing down. Despite this, organizations can still win with the right technology on their side.

WHAT IS RANSOMWARE?

Ransomware is a form of malware that targets your critical data and systems for the purpose of extortion. This malicious software is designed to prevent organizations from accessing certain parts of its system. For example, an entity and its users could be locked out from critical systems, such as EHRs, and may be unable to regain access unless they pay a certain amount of money.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Ransomware exploits the human element of an organization – namely its employees, customers, and suppliers. Attackers have many ways to initiate an attack – everything from common malvertising and phishing methods to sophisticated thumb drive drop tactics. The infections can begin when users click on links in phishing emails or if malicious ads or compromised sites redirect users to domains hosting exploit kits. Exploit kits can also be delivered via email attachments or infected thumb drives.

When an attacker successfully exploits a computer, they can potentially access an organization’s entire system. After the users have been locked out of their data or systems, the attacker demands a ransom payment. After receiving payment, often in Bitcoin, the attacker will purportedly provide an avenue to the victim to regain access to the system.

WHAT CAN HEALTHCARE ORGANIZATIONS DO?

Deploying technology solutions and tools – like MTS’ Web Content Filtering – can go a long way in preventing and, in the worst case, mitigating a ransomware incident’s impact. These tools are designed to combat ransomware alongside comprehensive company-wide strategies.

MTS wants to help you reduce your risk of falling victim to ransomware – that’s why we proactively implement our Web Content Filtering tools for our Cloud customers. With our tools installed, your hosted environment is optimally protected against ransomware and other threats. For others who who need an extra layer of security to guard against the malicious activity of cybercriminals, MTS Web Content Filtering is also available as an add-on service.

Our security team is available to help evaluate your existing security program. These experts can recommend additional steps you can take to avoid having your data held hostage by cybercriminals.

If you have any questions about the MTS Web Content Filtering Service, or about our security consulting services, we encourage you to contact us at sales@medtechsolutions.com.