In our physical lives, choosing a safe neighbourhood is crucial. However, we are all inadvertently living in high-risk areas in the digital world. While a hub of information and connectivity, the internet is also rife with cyber threats. This landscape makes cybersecurity a personal concern and a collective responsibility. We need to learn about it as healthcare professionals and as everyday people using technology.
The Online “Bad Areas” – Online “bad areas” are not geographically bound; they are hidden in deceptive emails, unsecured networks, and even on legitimate websites that have been compromised. Cybercriminals exploit these areas, making the internet a challenging environment to navigate safely.
The Ease of Online Crime – Cybercrime attracts criminals due to its low physical risk and high reward potential. Unlike breaking into a house, cyberattacks can be launched remotely, making it a favoured method for modern criminals.
The Universal Risk – Everyone, irrespective of their digital literacy, is a potential target. From individual users to large corporations, the threat is universal. This universality underscores the need for collective vigilance in cybersecurity practices.
Top 5 Tips for Staying Safe Online
- Use Strong Passwords: Create a different complex password for each online account so that the bad guys can’t get into your other accounts if one gets breached. Use a password manager to keep track of them.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your accounts wherever possible. If the bad guys get your password, you’ll have a second line of defence.
- Regular Software Updates: Keep your operating system and applications up to date to protect against known vulnerabilities. The updates “patch” the holes in the code that allow attackers into your devices.
- Be Wary of Suspicious Links and Emails: Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments, whether they are from an unknown source or one of your contacts. If one of your contacts is breached, it’s common for cyber criminals to use their email address to attack you too!
- Secure Your Wi-Fi Network: Use strong passwords and avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions, as cybercriminals can easily access your device over free Wi-Fi.
Collective Responsibility – Cybersecurity is a shared duty. When one person’s digital security is compromised, it can have a ripple effect, endangering others. For instance, a breached email account can be used to spread malware to contacts, highlighting how individual actions impact broader digital safety.
National Security Implications – Everyone’s participation in cybersecurity contributes to national security. The National Cyber Security Alliance emphasizes the importance of collective action in protecting sensitive data and infrastructure. Similarly, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) offers resources and guidance for individuals and organizations to improve their cyber posture.
In the digital world, we must all consider ourselves residents of a globally interconnected neighbourhood. By practising and promoting good cybersecurity habits, we protect ourselves and contribute to the safety
and security of our entire online community.
Together, we can make dentistry safer online.
This article is a privacy month Special.
About the Author
Anne Genge, Certified Information Privacy Professional, Certified Healthcare Cybersecurity Professional, Certified Healthcare Security Risk Assessment Specialist. Anne is the founder of Myla Training Co., Canada’s first-ever online privacy and cybersecurity training platform for dental professionals. With over two decades of experience, Anne has become a leading expert and trainer in this field. Anne collaborates closely with practice owners, managers, dental teams, and IT providers to ensure the safety of patients and practice data while enabling
compliance with privacy regulations. Anne can be reached at anne@myla.training or call 877-363-9229 x702.
