SAFETY & SECURITY SLAYINGMYTHS


Digital Care Hub debunks some common misconceptions surrounding cyber security in the adult social care sector.


Cyber security might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about safety in adult social care, but it’s one of the sector’s biggest risks. Recent ransomware attacks on high-street names like M&S and the Co-op, which leſt some shelves empty over the past few weeks, show that no organisation is immune, regardless of size or sector. In social care, where sensitive data and continuity of care are at stake, cyber incidents can be particularly damaging. Yet despite the growing threat, myths and misunderstandings still stop many providers from taking the necessary precautions.


WE’RE TOO SMALL TO BE A TARGET


Cyber criminals rarely handpick their victims. They use automated tools to scan for vulnerabilities across industries. If your systems are exposed or your soſtware is outdated, you could be targeted– regardless of whether you’re a care home group or single-site provider.


OUR IT DEPARTMENT IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THAT


While good IT support is essential, it’s not a complete shield. Frontline staff are oſten the first line of defence and the first point of failure. If someone clicks on a phishing email or shares sensitive information over the phone, even the best systems can’t stop a breach.


Phishing attempts are evolving. With the help of AI, attackers can now generate convincing emails that mimic suppliers, NHS partners, or even your own staff. Some recent scams use cloned voices to impersonate managers or finance leads.


AS LONG AS WE PROTECT OUR OWN SYSTEMS, WE’LL BE SAFE


Cyber security isn’t just about what you control. Your supplier’s security matters too, and it’s important you know what measures they have in place. The recent Co-op ransomware attack disrupted deliveries due to an attack on a soſtware supplier. For care providers increasingly reliant on digital tools like medication management or care planning platforms, a similar incident could cause serious disruption.


WE’RE FULLY COVERED BECAUSE WE HAVE CYBER INSURANCE


Cyber insurance can help with recovery, but it won’t prevent an attack – and it oſten won’t pay out unless you can show you had reasonable protections in place. That includes up-to-date soſtware, good staff training, and secure password practices. Insurance should be the safety net, not the plan.


WHAT CAN PROVIDERS DO?


Get the basics right: Make sure all soſtware is up to date, use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and train staff regularly to spot phishing attempts. Low-cost actions make a big difference.


Take a look beyond your own systems: Many providers rely on care planning soſtware, HR platforms, and more. Do you know what security measures those suppliers have in place? Do they back up your data and have a recovery plan? If not, ask them. You’re entitled to know how your data is protected.


Plan for what happens if things do go wrong: A business continuity plan should cover how your service would operate if your systems went down or key data was lost. Who would you notify? How would you deliver care? These are questions that need clear, tested answers.


Digital Care Hub regularly advises providers on how to become more cyber secure. We provide free cyber security guidance, and we strongly recommend completing the Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) – a free annual self-assessment that helps you understand your risks and improve your data protection practices. If you’re unsure where to start, check out the free support on the Digital Care Hub website.


Cyber threats are evolving, but so are the defences. By understanding the risks and dispelling outdated myths, care providers can strengthen their defences.


www.digitalcarehub.co.uk


Photo credit: Vlad Zaytsev on Unsplash 20 www.tomorrowscare.co.uk


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