Houston Methodist’s cybersecurity team constantly monitors HM computers, looking for red flags alerting unusual activity. If your computer workstation or HM-issued device becomes quarantined for security reasons, you’ll see a message like this in your browser: ATTENTION: Your computer’s network access has been temporarily suspended.
If you see this message, never attempt to resolve the issue yourself. Immediately call the IT Service Desk (832.667.5600), and report that you’ve received a “Houston Methodist Information Security Alert.” Leave your computer ON and connected to the network.
Most HM computers have a tag on them with your computer name (e.g., 1hh2it_It02). Be ready to provide the computer name and your physical location, along with your name and contact information. If you don’t have the computer name, provide as much information as possible (e.g., nurses’ station in Jones 12).
IT will need to reimage your computer which typically takes about two to four hours. If you’re on premises, you may be able to receive a loaner computer. If you’re out of the Houston area, we’ll walk you through your alternatives, like using the HM portal, and arranging to have your device shipped.
You can help protect our patient data and corporate systems by following these four fundamentals.
- Use strong passwords and don’t reuse them at work and at home.
- Enable multifactor authentication (MFA) when possible. Taking an extra step beyond passwords is your best bet for better security.
- Don’t click suspicious links and report phishing attempts. Click the Report Suspicious button in the top, right corner of Outlook, and IT will investigate it for you.
- Keep your software updated. Download and install updates as soon as they’re available.
