Strengthening Aged Care Security with Essential 8 Controls

What are the Essential 8 Security Controls?

The Essential 8 are a set of baseline cybersecurity controls designed to mitigate the risk of cyber incidents. Each control targets specific vulnerabilities in an organisation’s IT environment and, when implemented effectively, provides a robust defense against a range of threats. Here’s a closer look at each control and its relevance to aged care.

1. Application Whitelisting

Application whitelisting ensures that only approved applications can run on an organisation’s systems, reducing the risk of malware or unauthorised software. For aged care providers, this control helps maintain the integrity of client records and protects the organisation’s IT infrastructure from malicious software that could compromise sensitive data.

2. Patch Applications

Regularly updating and patching applications closes known security gaps that cybercriminals often exploit. In aged care, where client data privacy is paramount, keeping software up to date is critical to ensure vulnerabilities aren’t exploited, particularly in essential client management and medical applications.

3. Configure Microsoft Office Macro Settings

Macros can be exploited to deliver malware through seemingly legitimate documents. Configuring Microsoft Office macro settings limits the risk of malware entering the network via these macros, which is essential in aged care environments where staff frequently interact with external documents for client records and compliance.

4. User Application Hardening

Disabling certain features in applications (such as Java in web browsers) can prevent common malware infections. For aged care providers, this control is particularly useful as it reduces the risk of staff accidentally downloading malware, keeping the focus on providing secure and reliable client care.

5. Restrict Administrative Privileges

Limiting administrative privileges to only those who need them reduces the risk of accidental or intentional misuse. In aged care, where staff turnover may be high, enforcing strict access controls ensures that sensitive client data and system configurations are protected from unauthorised access.

6. Patch Operating Systems

Operating system patches address vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit. By keeping systems updated, aged care providers protect critical IT infrastructure that supports client care and administrative processes, reducing downtime and vulnerability to cyber threats.

7. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA requires users to verify their identity through more than one method, adding a crucial layer of security. For aged care providers, this control safeguards client data by ensuring that even if login credentials are compromised, unauthorised users cannot easily access sensitive information.

8. Daily Backups

Regular, secure backups are essential for recovering from data loss, ransomware attacks, or other cyber incidents. In aged care, client data is invaluable, and daily backups ensure that providers can restore information quickly in the event of an attack, minimising disruption to client care.

THREEDIGITAL’s Role in Strengthening Aged Care Security

At THREEDIGITAL, we understand the unique challenges faced by small and medium-sized aged care providers. These organisations often need enterprise-level security but may lack the resources or expertise to implement comprehensive security measures on their own. Our team works closely with aged care providers to assess their current security posture, establish a clear security roadmap, and implement the Essential 8 controls.

How THREEDIGITAL Supports Aged Care Providers with the Essential 8:

1. Assessment and Roadmap Development
   We start with a thorough evaluation of each provider’s current security environment. This assessment identifies any gaps in the Essential 8 controls and provides a clear picture of the organisation’s security posture. From there, we develop a tailored roadmap that prioritises critical controls and outlines a phased approach to implementation, giving executives and boards confidence in the direction of their cybersecurity strategy.

2. Guided Implementation
   Implementing the Essential 8 controls can be challenging, especially with limited internal resources. Our team provides hands-on guidance through each stage, from configuring application whitelisting to setting up MFA, ensuring that each control is tailored to meet the needs of aged care providers. This process helps protect client data and reduces the risk of disruptions due to cyber threats.

3. Training and Awareness
   Cybersecurity is as much about culture as it is about technology. We work with aged care providers to create a security-conscious culture by training staff on best practices, such as recognising phishing attempts and understanding the importance of software updates. This awareness empowers staff to play an active role in maintaining security, reducing the likelihood of human error.

4. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
   Cyber threats are constantly evolving, which is why we provide ongoing support to monitor and adapt the security strategy as needed. Our continuous monitoring and regular reviews help ensure that the Essential 8 controls remain effective and up-to-date, providing peace of mind to executives and board members alike.

The Benefits of a Strong Security Posture in Aged Care

By implementing the Essential 8 controls with THREEDIGITAL’s support, aged care providers can experience several key benefits:

• Improved Compliance: The Essential 8 help providers align with industry regulations, ensuring that sensitive client data is managed and protected responsibly.
• Enhanced Reputation: A strong security posture demonstrates a commitment to client safety and privacy, building trust with clients and their families.
• Reduced Risk of Disruptions: With essential data and systems protected, providers can avoid costly downtime and maintain seamless client care.
• Peace of Mind for Executives and Boards: With a clear security roadmap and ongoing support, leaders can feel confident that their organisation is well-prepared to face cybersecurity challenges.

Conclusion

In today’s digital landscape, aged care providers must be proactive in protecting their client data and IT infrastructure. The Essential 8 security controls offer a practical, cost-effective way to build a strong cybersecurity foundation. At THREEDIGITAL, we’re proud to support small and medium-sized aged care providers in enhancing their security posture, providing peace of mind for executives, and helping organisations meet the demands of a connected, client-focused industry.

If you’re ready to take the next steps in strengthening your organisation’s security, reach out to THREEDIGITAL to learn how we can help you implement the Essential 8 controls and build a resilient cybersecurity strategy.