The number of cybersecurity victims continues to rise. From 2001 to December 2023, it increased 1,517% from 6 to 97 victims per hour. Given these staggering statistics, it’s more important than ever that you take action. Here are some important tips you can follow to protect Houston Methodist and yourself.
If You Have an HM-Issued Device, Use It
If you have an HM-issued device, always use it instead of a personal device. HM devices have extra layers of protection to keep our patient and corporate data safe, Plus, updates are automatically installed. If you work remote and don’t have an HM-device, please speak with your manager.
If You’re Using Your Personal Device
If you’re using your personal device to access HM resources, we strongly recommend you adopt the following security measures.
- Keep systems and applications up to date. Whether it’s your smartphone, a tablet or your computer, make sure you run operating system and software updates regularly. (For Microsoft, you should be on Windows 11.) It’s even better to auto-install updates as soon as they’re released.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all your accounts. Just about every online account system — Google, Apple, banking sites, etc. — has the capacity to enable multi-factor authentication. This is essential to ensure only you can access your accounts.
- Use unique, complex passphrases everywhere. Websites and even your home PC should be protected with lengthy (15 characters or more) passwords including upper/lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid re-using the same password for multiple accounts. Never use your personal passwords at work.
- Enable Windows Security for basic protection against viruses and online threats. Windows Security monitors threats to your device, runs scans and gets updates to help detect the latest threats. For information on customizing your Windows Security features, click here.
- Turn Microsoft Defender Firewall on. Even if you have another firewall enabled, it helps to use Microsoft Defender Firewall as an extra defense barrier. For instructions, click here.
- Take advantage of any supported and updated anti-virus platforms. Several free anti-virus applications are available, including Norton, McAfee and more. These give you even more protection.
For more tips to keep your computer secure at home, click here.
