Encryption Software for HIPAA Compliance

Backblaze offers crucial security features for cloud backups, such as encryption for file transmission and data at rest. Customers can specify their own private encryption keys, adding another layer of security for data privacy.In addition to proactive monitoring of all systems, Backblaze hires third parties to test the system’s security. Before accessing private data, the service requires account verification. Two-factor verification is available to prevent unauthorized access to the account.These privacy features align with HIPAA requirements, but the company website doesn’t offer much information about its own HIPAA enablement. It appears that HIPAA features are available only for customers on the B2 Cloud Storage plan.

The purpose of a virtual private network (VPN) is to encrypt data shared between devices. But there is no mention of NordVPN’s ability to enable HIPAA compliance or of the company’s willingness to sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) on the NordVPN website. NordLayer — NordVPN’s business VPN solution — claims to enable HIPAA compliance with appropriate measures for securing access to Protected Health Information (PHI). The NordLayer Help Center provides additional information about HIPAA and NordLayer. Plans are discussed on the website, but there is no specific mention of which ones enable HIPAA compliance.

Transport Layer Security (TLS encryption) offers security when sending emails, but it doesn’t guarantee secure delivery to the recipient. Even though cryptography codes the messages in transit, security isn’t assured for information at rest.In addition, certain email providers don’t support the delivery of encrypted messages. So the service removes the encryption to deliver the email, resulting in a message that contains plain text without encryption. Also, if the recipient responds, the reply transmits without encryption.Covered entities must make sure they’re using tools that ensure encryption on delivery. To meet HIPAA requirements, both mail servers must use TLS encryption.TLS encryption can be one tool to support HIPAA compliance. But such encryption alone isn’t sufficient for HIPAA requirements because the information can be exposed if the encryption fails.

Barracuda Messenger provides end-to-end encryption for communications, enabling you to exchange both video and audio calls as well as text messages in a confidential, secure environment.Even though Barracuda Messenger secures conversations in all locations and on all devices, the security features aren’t necessarily sufficient to meet HIPAA requirements. Also, Barracuda Messenger makes no mention of signing a business associate agreement (BAA).Covered entities looking for a video and text messaging platform for PHI should use a tool that meets HIPAA requirements.

Data encryption is an essential part of HIPAA compliance, and covered entities must ensure that information is fully encrypted both in transit and when stored. While VeraCrypt provides basic security features, its encryption tool may not be sufficient for protected health information (PHI).VeraCrypt’s encryption hasn't been fully compatible with all types of computers, such as certain types of PCs. Additionally, it’s designed to be used on single devices. For HIPAA compliance, it’s best to have a centralized encryption system with administrative features that include remote access and remote encryption capabilities.Information about VeraCrypt’s HIPAA-compliance effort is limited, so covered entities may want to consider choosing a commercial encryption service instead.

Bitlocker enables HIPAA compliance for data at rest by using the XTS-AES algorithm for data encryption on Windows systems, offering customers both AES 128-bit and 256-bit key lengths. The highest level of protection is available when this encryption is paired with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 1.2 or later.Since Bitlocker integrates with the Microsoft Windows operating system, covered entities should use additional security precautions if cloud storage is involved. Another benefit of using Bitlocker for HIPAA compliance is the data protection feature that addresses data theft risks, including exposure from computers that are stolen, lost, or inappropriately decommissioned.Compliance depends on several criteria, such as integrating Azure cloud service and having volume licensing.