The Mobile Device Privacy and Security subsection of HealthIT.gov contains privacy and security tips and information to help protect and secure health information. Here are some important privacy and security tips:
- Use a password and other user authentication
- Install and enable encryption
- Install and activate remote wiping and remote disabling
- Disable and do not install or use file sharing applications
- Install and enable a firewall
- Install and enable security software
- Keep your security software up to date
- Research mobile applications (apps) before downloading
- Maintain physical control
- Use adequate security to send or receive health information over public Wi-Fi networks
- Delete all stored health information before discarding or reusing the mobile device
Also consider taking steps to:
- Turn off or set Bluetooth capabilities to nondiscoverable
- Not share your mobile device
- Register the mobile device with your organization
More detailed information about these and other security tips can be found on the Mobile Device Privacy and Security website. This document is a list of the security tips identified on this website.
You can also go to this webpage that explores some risks and security tips you can consider implementing when using a mobile device. Securing Your Mobile Device is Important!, one of the videos in our video series, explains why it is important for providers to put measures in place to protect the privacy and security of health information when using mobile devices. Another video in our video series, Worried About Using a Mobile Device? Here is What To Do! explores privacy and security risks and tips related to mobile devices.