Account Security Best Practices

Your MedMatrix account contains sensitive professional and personal information that must be protected. Strong security practices protect not only your data but also your professional reputation and compliance with healthcare privacy regulations.

What's at Risk:

- Personal Information: Name, contact details, professional credentials

- Educational Records: CME credits, certificates, learning history

- Financial Information: Pulse wallet balance, payment methods

- Professional Data: License information, specialty certifications

- Communication History: Messages, support interactions

Regulatory Compliance:

Healthcare professionals must maintain data security to comply with:

Professional Impact:

A compromised account can lead to:

Password Requirements:

MedMatrix requires passwords that meet these minimum standards:

Best Practices for Strong Passwords:

1. Use 12+ Characters: Longer passwords are exponentially more secure

2. Create Unique Passwords: Never reuse passwords across different accounts

3. Use Passphrases: Combine multiple unrelated words (e.g., "Coffee!Mountain7Blue")

4. Avoid Personal Information: Don't use birthdays, names, or addresses

5. Regular Updates: Change passwords every 90 days or immediately if compromised

Password Creation Methods:

- Passphrase Method: "MyDog!Loves2EatTreats" (easy to remember, hard to crack)

- Acronym Method: "IW2BaD!i2024" (I Want 2 Be a Doctor! in 2024)

- Password Manager: Let a password manager generate and store complex passwords

What to Avoid:

What is Two-Factor Authentication?

2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring two different authentication factors:

1. Something you know (your password)

2. Something you have (your phone or authentication app)

Available 2FA Methods on MedMatrix:

- SMS Text Messages: Receive codes via text message

- Email Codes: Receive codes in your email inbox

- Authenticator Apps: Use apps like Google Authenticator or Authy

- Backup Codes: Pre-generated codes for emergency access

Setting Up 2FA:

1. Go to Account Settings → Security

2. Click Enable Two-Factor Authentication

Using Authenticator Apps (Recommended):

- Google Authenticator: Free, works offline

- Authy: Supports backup and sync across devices

- Microsoft Authenticator: Integrates with Microsoft accounts

- 1Password: Built into the password manager

Backup Codes:

Login Monitoring:

MedMatrix automatically monitors your account for suspicious activity:

- Unusual Login Locations: Logins from new countries or regions

- Multiple Failed Attempts: Repeated incorrect password attempts

- New Device Access: First-time logins from unrecognized devices

- Unusual Activity Patterns: Access at unusual times or frequencies

Security Alerts:

You'll receive notifications for:

Reviewing Account Activity:

1. Go to Account Settings → Security → Login History

Setting Up Alerts:

- Email Notifications: Receive security alerts via email

- SMS Alerts: Get text messages for critical security events

- Push Notifications: Mobile app notifications for real-time alerts

- Frequency Settings: Choose immediate, daily, or weekly summaries

Browser Security:

- Use Updated Browsers: Keep Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge current

- Enable Automatic Updates: Ensure security patches are installed

- Avoid Public Computers: Don't access MedMatrix from shared computers

- Clear Browser Data: Regularly clear cache, cookies, and saved passwords

- Use Private/Incognito Mode: When using shared or public devices

Device Security:

- Lock Screen Protection: Use PIN, password, or biometric locks

- Automatic Screen Lock: Set short timeout periods (1-5 minutes)

- Device Encryption: Enable full-device encryption

- Regular Updates: Install OS and security updates promptly

- Antivirus Software: Use reputable antivirus on computers

Network Security:

- Avoid Public WiFi: Don't access sensitive accounts on public networks

- Use VPN: If you must use public WiFi, use a reputable VPN service

- Verify Network Names: Ensure you're connecting to legitimate networks

- HTTPS Only: Always verify the URL shows "https://" and a lock icon

Mobile App Security:

- Download from Official Stores: Only use App Store or Google Play

- App Permissions: Review and limit app permissions

- Biometric Authentication: Use fingerprint or face recognition when available

- App Updates: Keep the MedMatrix app updated to the latest version

Immediate Actions:

If you suspect your account has been compromised:

1. Change Your Password Immediately

2. Enable or Update 2FA

3. Review Account Activity

4. Contact Support Immediately

Recovery Process:

1. Account Verification: Prove your identity with official documents

2. Security Assessment: Our team reviews the compromise extent

3. Account Restoration: Restore legitimate data and settings

4. Enhanced Security: Implement additional security measures

5. Monitoring: Increased monitoring for future suspicious activity

Prevention for the Future:

Professional Considerations: