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- Meshnet Feature for Personal Encrypted Networks: NordVPN offers a unique feature called Meshnet, which allows users to connect their devices directly and securely over the internet. This means you can create your own private, encrypted network for activities like gaming, file sharing, or remote access to your home devices from anywhere in the world.
- RAM-Only Servers for Enhanced Security: Unlike many VPN providers, NordVPN uses RAM-only (diskless) servers. Since these servers run entirely on volatile memory, all data is wiped with every reboot. This ensures that no user data is stored long-term, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches and enhancing overall security.
- Servers in a Former Military Bunker: Some of NordVPN's servers are housed in a former military bunker located deep underground. This unique location provides an extra layer of physical security against natural disasters and unauthorized access, ensuring that the servers are protected in all circumstances.
- NordLynx Protocol with Double NAT Technology: NordVPN developed its own VPN protocol called NordLynx, built around the ultra-fast WireGuard protocol. What sets NordLynx apart is its implementation of a double Network Address Translation (NAT) system, which enhances user privacy without sacrificing speed. This innovative approach solves the potential privacy issues inherent in the standard WireGuard protocol.
- Dark Web Monitor Feature: NordVPN includes a feature known as Dark Web Monitor. This tool actively scans dark web sites and forums for credentials associated with your email address. If it detects that your information has been compromised or appears in any data breaches, it promptly alerts you so you can take necessary actions to protect your accounts.
The Joint Commission, a healthcare accreditation agency, has advised hospitals and health systems to brace for at least a month of downtime following a cyberattack, according to The Wall Street Journal. This recommendation is part of new guidelines released by the agency for handling IT security events. John Riggi, national adviser for cybersecurity and risk at the American Hospital Association, indicated that critical systems usually take three to four weeks to restore, while noncritical ones take even longer. He emphasized the importance of continuing to admit patients during the remediation process.
The advisory comes as Prospect Medical Holdings, a California-based 16-hospital system, is still recovering from a ransomware attack it suffered on August 3. Despite making significant progress and fully restoring some operational systems, the health system is still in the process of bringing others online.
The most common causes of hospital data breaches are phishing and “smishing” attacks. David Baker, executive vice president for healthcare quality evaluation and improvement at the Joint Commission, acknowledged that putting the cybersecurity recommendations into practice will necessitate considerable effort and expenditure. He warned that the repercussions could be disastrous even if only a few staff members fall victim to a phishing attack.