Cybersecurity Take-Home Checklist for Future Dentists
Check if Your Data is Leaked
- Visit https://haveibeenpwned.com/
and enter your email to see if it has been part of a data breach.
Change Any Compromised Passwords
- If your password was leaked, change it immediately.
- Use a unique password for every account.
Use a Password Manager
- Recommended options: Bitwarden, 1Password, LastPass
- Stores and generates strong passwords for you.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
- Turn on MFA wherever possible (especially for email, banking, and dental software).
- Use an authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy) instead of SMS codes.
Be Cautious of Phishing Emails & Messages
- Never click on suspicious links in emails or texts.
- Verify senders before responding to unexpected messages.
Secure Your Devices & Wi-Fi
- Keep computers and software updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Use strong Wi-Fi passwords and don’t use public Wi-Fi for sensitive work.
Back Up Your Data
- Use cloud backups or an external hard drive for important files.
- Make sure backups are encrypted and protected from ransomware.
Stay HIPAA-Compliant (For Your Future Practice)
- Protect patient data (PHI) like you would protect your own.
- Never store patient information on personal devices or unsecured platforms.
Use Business-Grade Cybersecurity for Your Practice
- Invest in next-gen antivirus, firewalls, and email filtering.
- Consider cyber insurance to protect against data breaches.
