Cybersecurity and legal experts discuss cyber threats at Australian Society of Ophthalmologists

Last weekend, (Sunday, 4 June 2023), the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists hosted a discussion on cybersecurity. Medico-legal Advisory Counsel for MDA National Insurance, Deborah Jackson, and Director of Notion Digital Forensics, Matt O’Kane, presented jointly on cyber threats, defences, and cultivating a cyber aware culture.

Deborah Jackson on Culture

Ms. Jackson emphasised the role of culture in strengthening cybersecurity, explaining how leadership, continuous learning, and effective communication can foster beneficial behaviours. Drawing from her experience with cyber breaches in specialist medical practices, she illustrated her points convincingly.

Matt O’Kane on what he learns from breach investigations

Matt O’Kane then shared his unique perspective as a cybersecurity professional with personal experience of ophthalmologist services, given his low vision.

As Director of Notion Digital Forensics, O’Kane’s role involves investigating breaches to enhance clients’ cybersecurity, insights he also shares with national defenders at UNSW Canberra.

O’Kane outlined five major cyber threats affecting small to medium healthcare practices: ransomware, rogue employees, business email compromise, IT managed service provider errors, and data breaches. He further discussed how high-performing employees can inadvertently cause breaches.

Both presentations sparked interest and generated substantial questions with delegates.