Laptop and desktop computers are typically used as platforms for data entry of protected health information, financial information, and scientific formulas. Companies also use traditional software like Microsoft Office and e-mail software like Microsoft Outlook, All these application could be storing sensitive information on the local computer.

There is much vulnerability to sensitive information on these systems. Some common overlooked vulnerability points could be in web browsers that store information locally on the computers, USB devices that could easily connect to computers to copy data, and even old, deleted files that are easily recoverable with rudimentary tools available today.

The security of confidential information is greatly dependant on the security of the least common denominator of technology, and those devices are usually the ones used by people the most. Technologies exist today that can easily mitigate threats to privacy and security of protected health information. Encrypting entire hard drives using whole disk encryption will prevent contents from being viewed by unauthorized individuals in case a computer is lost or stolen. Secondary access control like smart cards, two-factor authentication tokens, and biometrics implemented to secure end points could significantly mitigate risks to unauthorized access to sensitive information.

They key to making security technologies work is that they need to be transparent to the end user, yet secure enough to protect information properly. The technologies need to be easy to manage so that they are less prone to human error. It is important to take these factors into consideration when deciding on the best solution for your organization.

ExperiorData Solutions: Implement whole disk encryption and endpoint security on desktop and laptop computers; evaluate the need for two-factor authentication and smart card technologies.