Cyber Attacks: They Could Happen to You
27 Jun 2018
Cyber Attacks: They Could Happen to You
Argus software is used to send secure messages between GPs, specialists, hospitals and allied health practitioners.It is used at about 3,500 sites by around 40,000 practitioners in Australia. According to Telstra Health who acquired and distributed Argus, these users trusted Argus to “securely communicate confidential patient information quickly and reliably, in-line with privacy standards".
However, according to Fairfax Media, hackers managed to gain access to a number of doctors’ computers via a flaw in the Argus software. Although it appeared that the medical records had not been improperly accessed or disclosed, a Fairfax source said the hackers used the exposed information to run scams such as dating or rental scams, and to anonymously purchase goods online using presumably stolen credit cards.
The incident highlights the need for medical practices to regularly update software and security systems.
Telstra Health has indicated that the vulnerability appears to have occurred in specific versions of Argus that had not been updated, and where remote desktop connections were open to unauthorised parties outside of their network. When Argus was installed it automatically created an extra Windows user account with a default password stored in a plaintext file, allowing hackers to login.
The Australian Digital Health Agency said that the vulnerability has been addressed with a security patch and customers have been provided with the steps necessary to ensure they have the basic security settings in place.
For more information on cyber security, see MDA National’s Cyber Resources page.
Doctors Let's Talk: Get Yourself A Fricking GP
Get yourself a fricking GP stat! is a conversation with Dr Lam, 2019 RACGP National General Practitioner of the Year, rural GP and GP Anesthetics trainee, that explores the importance of finding your own GP as a Junior Doctor.
25 Oct 2022
Systematic efforts to reduce harms due to prescribed opioids – webinar recording
Efforts are underway across the healthcare system to reduce harms caused by pharmaceutical opioids. This 43-min recording of a live webinar, delivered 11 March 2021, is an opportunity for prescribers to check, and potentially improve, their contribution to these endeavours. Hear from an expert panel about recent opioid reforms by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and changes to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
14 May 2021
Diplomacy in a hierarchy: tips for approaching a difficult conversation
Have you found yourself wondering how to broach a tough topic of conversation? It can be challenging to effectively navigate a disagreement with a co-worker, especially if they're 'above' you; however, it's vital for positive team dynamics and safe patient care. In this recording of a live webinar you'll have the opportunity to learn from colleagues' experiences around difficult discussions and hear from a diverse panel moderated by Dr Kiely Kim (medico-legal adviser and general practitioner). Recorded live on 2 September 2020.
05 Oct 2020
