Human error is the most common culprit for compromising your data and patient records.

Here are four really easy ways to prevent phishing scams, stolen passwords, etc. Making sure everyone in your office realizes THEY are the key component to protecting client information and data. You are your own best security team. Use the tips below to defend yourself and your data from being compromised.

1. WATCH FOR PHISHING EMAILS

NEVER click on a link in an email or send your password through an email. A lot of scammers pretend to be your boss, coworkers, etc. to force this information from you. 

2. HOW OLD IS YOUR PASSWORD?

Some security experts think it's fine to use the same password for up to one year if it's 15 characters or more in length. If it’s 14 or fewer, they recommend changing it every 90 days. Be aware, though, that extending a password expiration period increases the risk that someone could steal and reuse it to access other accounts owned by the same person. Shorter password expiration periods are always better.

3. NEVER WRITE YOUR PASSWORD DOWN 

If you're notorious for putting your password on a post-it note on your monitor - stop it! No one should know your password. Memorize it. Keep it in your brain.

4. ALWAYS LOCK YOUR COMPUTER SCREEN WHEN YOU WALK AWAY 

If you work in an environment that has private customer data (i.e. medical office, law office, etc.) then leaving your computer unlocked when you get up to get coffee, really sets you up for failure. Keep your computer screen locked while you pour the Folgers.