Training Your Staff to Defend Your Practice from Cyber Threats

Summary: Cyberattacks are a growing threat to dental and orthodontic practices, with human error being a major vulnerability. Training staff to recognize and respond to cyber threats strengthens a practice’s defense and protects patient data.

Key Takeaways:

• Cybercriminals target dental practices, exploiting weak security measures and human mistakes.
• Employee training in phishing, malware, and social engineering reduces cyber risks.
• Continuous education and simulated attacks keep staff prepared for evolving threats.

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By Gary Salman

The threat of cyberattacks is looming larger than ever, with increasingly sophisticated tactics being deployed by hackers. In 2024 alone, there have been over 875 million records breached. 

Dental and dental specialty practices, such as orthodontics, are often a target of cybercriminals. As cybersecurity experts who specialize in the dental industry, we have witnessed countless practices that have been crippled by cyberattacks—disrupting client service, reputation, and finances. However, you don’t have to be a helpless victim. There are proactive steps you can and should take to defend your business against these devastating events.

Building a strong defense requires a multi-faceted approach. Mostly widely known and utilized is the firewall, which is essential yet limited. Firewalls restrict certain types of network traffic but don’t guarantee complete protection from malicious emails and other threats. Firewalls also require constant updates and configuration to stay effective. 

Beyond the software, you need to create a “human firewall” through staff cybersecurity training. And this means everyone on your staff—not just those involved in IT. More than 60% of all cyberattacks can be linked to human error and falling for a social engineering scam. It is a grave error to limit cybersecurity awareness training to people who are on computers all day. Even an employee who only goes online once a week to place a supply order, for example, could fall victim to a phishing email that leads to a ransomware attack. A business is only as strong as its weakest link—so all employees need to be included in your cybersecurity game plan.

Creating a Staff Firewall

Your greatest vulnerability to cyberattacks can be your workforce. And this does not mean untrustworthy or intentionally malicious staff since even the most seasoned and trusted members of your team can make mistakes. However, your employees can also be your greatest defense against cybercrime if they are informed and educated. Here are a few steps to create a an intelligent, active, vigilant team that knows how to identify and handle potential threats.

1. Understanding cyber threats: Cybersecurity training should begin with enabling employees to recognize a wide variety of cyber threats, including unsafe browsing practices, phishing emails, social engineering tactics, and malware disguised as legitimate software. Recognizing the key indicators of these threats is the foundation of prevention as well as decisive action in the presence of an attack.
2. Simulating phishing campaigns: Optimal training goes beyond theory and provides opportunities for applying knowledge. Simulated phishing campaigns work by sending realistic-looking phishing emails to employees, allowing you to target areas where improvement is needed. This offers valuable lessons in a controlled environment to keep cybersecurity top of mind with zero risk. It also provides insight to training gaps and team members who may require retraining.
3. Consistent reinforcement: Cybercriminals are constantly changing their tactics, and training must evolve with the current threats to keep up. Refreshers and follow up training are essential to keep employees equipped to handle the ever-changing, devious tactics of cybercriminals.

GO IN DEPTH: Gary Salman joins the podcast to talk about protecting your practice from cybersecurity threats

Customized Training to Match Your Operations

Pre-packaged ‘one size fits all’ training is never the most effective. It’s important to select a cybersecurity specialist that understands your specific business needs and will tailor the training accordingly. Investing in training your people to be the frontline defense against a cyberattack is well worth the expense. It can prevent significant financial loss, business interruptions, and reputational damage with far-reaching impact. Keeping your patients’ information safe is paramount for a sound business model.

Technology alone can never replicate the human ability to analyze information and detect suspicious behavior. Investing in cybersecurity awareness training positions your employees to become active participants in safeguarding your company’s data and your patients’ trust. OP

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