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Running computers with Windows 7 is HIPAA violation as of Jan 15, 2020
End of Life for Windows 7
Windows 7 was launched by Microsoft in October 2009. Microsoft ended mainstream support for Windows 7 on January 13, 2015, but extended support was extended until January 14, 2020.
From Microsoft’s website: Windows 7 support ended on January 14, 2020
If any of your computers are still running Windows 7 and houses or has access to any Protected Health Information – you are in HIPAA violation.
Why is it HIPAA Violation?
HIPAA is applicable to all providers who deal with patient information (Covered Entities). One of the requirements of the Security Rule within HIPAA is that companies must have updated patches on all computer systems within their network. This rule is in place to ensure cyber-attacks and other cybersecurity threats don’t impact healthcare providers and their patients. Doing so could have serious consequences for your facility if a data breach occurs.
The end of Windows 7 is widely known by cyber criminals and they’ll be looking to exploit the security vulnerabilities within healthcare practices that continue to operate on the system.
What can you do if you are still running Windows 7?
Your best course is to upgrade the operating system to Windows 10. In some cases, that alone may not be enough. You see, older computers may have outdated hardware which makes the current bulkier operating system like Windows 10 – extremely slow. It could seriously hamper the productivity of anyone who is using the computer. In those situations, think about upgrading your computer.
Practice Tech Solutions is here to help!
We are an authorized Lenovo partner and Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider. Get in touch with us to get cost effective solution to your IT infrastructure and compliance requirements.
Call us: 224-900-1110 or email: info@practicetechsolutions.com
