Free CE Webinar Recap: Cyber Security for Veterinary Clinics of All Sizes

by Ali Oaks | October 25, 2023

In our recent veterinary CE online free webinar, Cyber Security for Veterinary Clinics of All Sizes, the GlobalVetLink team shared information about cyber security, why it is important, current cyber security threats, and how to improve your veterinary clinic’s cyber security.

Now, we’re sharing resources and Q&A from the webinar! If you still have questions related to this webinar, please contact us, and we’ll add them to this list.


Questions and answers from the webinar

There were many questions submitted by webinar attendees, and not all of them could be addressed in the hour-long session. We have compiled the questions and provided answers to the best of our knowledge. Click on a topic to expand the Q&A.

Cyber Security for Veterinary Clinics of All Sizes Webinar Questions

I do not recommend using a shared login for a general clinic for multiple reasons. Firstly, having multiple individuals aware of the software login creates additional opportunities, attracting hackers who may attempt to obtain the username and password. Additionally, within a PIMS system, various roles can have distinct levels of access. It’s not necessary to provide administrative access to all users. Maintaining multiple accounts simplifies the process of managing and regulating the specific access granted to each individual in case of a data breach.

BitWarden and 1Password are both really strong options that are relatively inexpensive. They both have an excellent track record in the market of not being hacked or not having any security incidents.

Many browsers have built-in password managers that are okay, but they come with some problems. They will only store passwords for websites accessed on that specific web browser. It won’t remember any of your locally installed software or any other browsers. BitWarden or 1Password can help you with all applications. It’s also good practice to keep your passwords securely stored away from your browser if any attacks arise.

Depending on your email provider, for example, Gmail, if you upgrade to their business account, has built-in scanning that will alert you to potential phishing attacks as well as virus scan attachments. Microsoft products have their own versions of this as well. Check with your email provider to see if they offer this service. If they don’t, oftentimes, they will recommend a service for you.

There are three options we recommend. Coursera, Phished, and KnowBe4. These options range from phishing testing to security training modules that are perfect to help educate your staff on what to look for regarding security threats.

The number one type of attack is phishing. It’s a very low-tech, easy way for hackers to get access to your data. For example, such attacks might involve impersonation, such as someone posing as your CEO requesting gift cards or funds to be sent via a specified link or a veterinarian seeking your login details under the pretext of account login issues. This is why phishing training with your staff is the number one way you can help improve your cyber security.

No, there is not a great way to tell the security levels on the website unless you check with the website provider if they are encrypting the data you are sending through the website.

If you fall victim to a cyber security attack, understand it is a crime. Reporting it to the authorities would be the first step. Try your local police; however, they often refer you to a more specialized department like the FBI. Once you are working with the authorities, they will guide you through the steps to get your data back and service restored.

You can do something as easy as going to BestBuy ThinkGeek, or you can look at local computer consultants who specialize in networking.

Yes, there are several things in place. Users can go into their settings and turn on “Enhanced Security.” This setting has stronger password requirements as well as multi-factor authentication in place that will help protect your account. Additionally, we have different levels of access you can assign to users. For example. veterinary technicians roles will have no document signing privileges, but they can start, view, and download documents.


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Watch Our Cyber Security for Veterinary Clinics of All Sizes Webinar

About this webinar:

In an increasingly interconnected world, where digital connections are reshaping industries, the importance of cyber security cannot be overstated. This enlightening webinar delves into cyber security and why it’s important, as well as current cyber security threats and how to improve your veterinary clinic’s cyber security.

Don't miss this opportunity to strengthen your understanding of cyber security and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to securely navigate our digitally driven future.


This program has been approved for one hour of continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize RACE approval.

Get started today with our RACE approved CE for veterinary technicians and teams!