Scams Abound since CrowdStrike Outage Crashed the Web - Don't Become a Victim

 

Unless you've been 'Rip Vanwikiling' away your time since last Thursday of so, you've most likely heard about the disaster that was brought about by an update from CrowdStrike that paralyzed certain parts of the tech landscape.

CrowdStrike is a security vendor that many companies running Windows computers count on.  The company helps protect its clients from malicious actors, usually through a product called Falcon.   Unfortunately, when the company pushed out an update to clients on Friday, there was a bug in the code which was unknown when the update deployed.  The result was that 1.8% of computers running Windows then crashed with the result being the feared 'Blue Screen of Death' which meant the computers wouldn't reboot.  At this point in time, it's my understanding that the only way to fix the problem is to boot the affected machine into Safe Mode and then remove the update manually by finding the file, clicking on it, and then deleting it.  Considering how many computers were affected, you know that the recovery process is going to be slow.

The problem caused all kinds of havoc.  The most noted was probably the effect it had on the travel industry.  Suddenly many airlines were unable to access their systems and the result was flights cancelled and travelers stranded... all over the place, with Delta Airlines being the worst affected.  I was actually flying home to KC on Saturday from a lecture in Tennessee and I consider myself lucky to have made it to my destination.  That day of my life is worth a blog post all on its own, but I'll save the you boring details for some other time.  I happened to be flying American Airlines for that trip.  They suffered some problems but nearly as severe as others.

Now, let's add to all of those troubles the fact that the moment the crash made headlines, into the void stepped the scammers.  Why criminals always jump into these moments to make a quick buck is beyond my comprehension, but you can pretty much count on that happening.  Recently Russia struck a children's hospital in Ukraine with a missile  and within hours, there were fake websites asking for donations to help those affected.  You can always count on the lowest level of humanity to try and take advantage of things.

Following that thread, there are now plenty of scammers attempting to profit from the CrowdStrike debacle.  According to Wired (which is one of my favorite publications) there has been a massive effort to create “CrowdStrike Support” scams targeting the company's customers and anyone who might be impacted by the chaos."  Please be aware of these types of websites, phone calls, etc and don't become a victim.  The impact of this disaster continues to be felt and I certainly don't want any of you nice enough to read my ramblings on a regular basis to end up losing your hard earned cash on something like that.

Wired has a great article on this that I feel is worth the 3-5 minutes it takes to read it.  Stay safe & keep your money safe too!

FTI Consulting Appoints Renowned Cybersecurity Communications Expert Brett Callow to Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications Practice

 

It's always a great feeling to see your friends succeed.  Today I get to tell you all about the great success achieved by my friend Brett Callow.  Our friendship is one of those great 'Internet stories'.  About 15 (or maybe longer) years ago, Brett was working for a auxiliary hard drive company that was exploring getting into the healthcare market.  He reached out to me to see about having me test some equipment.  That interaction lead to a long term friendship.  Brett moved on to security company Emsisoft where he became a threat analyst and spokesperson for the firm. He quickly became a well known expert and go-to guy for his perspectives on the data privacy and cybersecurity side of technology.

He's been interviewed by the New York Times and Wired magazine among many, many others.  He's also been quoted in several best selling books including Tracers in the Dark by Andy Greenberg (a book I highly recommend).

Throughout all of his fame and success Brett has continued to be humble and a truly 'good guy'.  He was even gracious enough to write an article for Dental Products Report about cybersecurity back in 2022.

He's now moved on to FTI Consulting to start his next career adventure.  Here's the press release about this new endeavor:

Callow to Serve as Managing Director, Bolstering FTI Consulting’s Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications Practice Globally

FTI Consulting, Inc. (NYSE: FCN) today announced the appointment of Brett Callow as a Managing Director in the Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications practice within its Strategic Communications segment.

Mr. Callow, who is based in Vancouver, will focus on providing cybersecurity and data privacy communications counsel to C-suites and boards, general counsel, information security and communications executives at U.S.-based and international organizations. Leveraging his extensive expertise, he will help clients effectively communicate through critical moments of crisis, navigate and manage the rapidly evolving policy, regulatory and media landscape and stakeholder relationships around cybersecurity and data privacy, proactively shape narratives, and protect and enhance their corporate reputation.

“We are thrilled to add Brett to our growing Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications global team and are excited about the unique perspective he will bring to our clients as we help them to navigate complex cybersecurity matters,” said Meredith Griffanti, Global Head of Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications for the Strategic Communications segment at FTI Consulting. “From crisis and incident response situations, to public policy and public affairs challenges, to cyber resilience and preparedness efforts, Brett’s reputation in our industry precedes him. His familiarity with the cybersecurity industry, media, policy makers and data privacy influencers is unmatched, and we look forward to tapping into that skillset to bolster our client capabilities and to expand our market presence and recognition as the leading global cybersecurity communications team.”

Prior to joining FTI Consulting, Mr. Callow served as a threat analyst and spokesperson for the cybersecurity firm Emsisoft, which is a partner in Europol’s No More Ransom project. He has been involved in some of the most high-profile ransomware incidents and has participated in panels and policy-related discussions for bodies including the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the Aspen Institute, and served on the advisory board of the Royal United Services Institute’s Ransomware Harms project. His research has been cited in the U.S. Economic Report of the President, by the World Economic Forum, the European Commission for Economic Policy and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, among others.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Callow said, “I am excited to be joining FTI Consulting’s exceptional cybersecurity communications team and look forward to being able to support clients navigate their toughest challenges.”

FTI Consulting’s Cybersecurity & Data Privacy Communications team has grown in response to the increased demand from clients facing cybersecurity crises and high-pressure data privacy challenges. In effort to expand its cybersecurity crisis communications and preparedness capabilities, the team announced dedicated expertise in key markets around the world, including Senior Director Orla Cox in EMEA and Director Eli Serota in Singapore. In addition, leveraging its integrated strategic communications expertise, the team has developed “Secure Your Seat,” a unique board readiness and communications training program specifically for chief information security officers and senior information security leaders.

About FTI Consulting

FTI Consulting, Inc. is a global business advisory firm dedicated to helping organizations manage change, mitigate risk and resolve disputes: financial, legal, operational, political & regulatory, reputational and transactional. With more than 8,000 employees located in 33 countries and territories, FTI Consulting professionals work closely with clients to anticipate, illuminate and overcome complex business challenges and make the most of opportunities. In certain jurisdictions, FTI Consulting’s services are provided through distinct legal entities that are separately capitalized and independently managed. The Company generated $3.49 billion in revenues during fiscal year 2023. More information can be found at www.fticonsulting.com.

SICAT and Vatech America Create A Powerful Alliance for Streamlined Dental Workflows

 

              Image courtesy of Vatech                                       

The proliferation of tech in both society and especially in dentistry progresses at an astounding pace.  Often a revolutionary shift happens, something new is developed, and the immediate reflex in the industry is to copy or replicate whatever it is.  With that in mind, I love to see collaboration.  Rather than replicate and compete, I feel it's often better to take two originals and put them together.  The result is frequently that sum is stronger than the individual parts.  That''s why today I'm enthusiastic about the collaboration between SICAT and Vatech.

The dental industry is constantly evolving, with advancements in technology leading to more precise and efficient treatment methods. A recent collaboration between SICAT and Vatech America promises to be a provide so great benefits for dental professionals.

Leaders Unite: SICAT's Software Meets Vatech's Hardware

SICAT, a leading software company renowned for its user-friendly implant planning and surgical guide applications (SICAT Suite), has joined forces with Vatech America, a prominent innovator in dental equipment, particularly 3D CBCT imaging systems. This strategic partnership integrates SICAT's powerful software suite directly with Vatech's Ez3D-i™ 3D imaging software.

This integration offers significant advantages for dentists:

• Streamlined Workflow: Having SICAT Suite readily accessible within the familiar Ez3D-i™ environment eliminates the need to switch between separate software programs. This translates to a more efficient workflow, saving valuable time during treatment planning.  No one likes multiple clicks to get a task accomplished.  By integrating directly into the Vatech systems, this makes things much more simple.
• Enhanced Treatment Planning: The seamless integration allows for a more precise and predictable implant planning process. Dentists can leverage SICAT's advanced features, including Implant, Endo, and Airway modules, directly within the 3D imaging data from Vatech's CBCT scans.
• Precision Surgical Guides: SICAT's software allows for the creation of highly accurate surgical guides directly from the CBCT data. This translates to a more minimally invasive and predictable surgical experience for both the dentist and the patient.  Guided surgery makes implant surgery more predictable and easier to perform
• Improved Patient Care: Ultimately, this powerful combination of software and hardware empowers dentists to provide their patients with exceptional care. The streamlined workflow and enhanced treatment planning capabilities can lead to more better outcomes and potentially shorter treatment times.

A Look Ahead: The Future of Dental Technology

The partnership between SICAT and Vatech America represents a significant step forward in dental technology. By combining their expertise in software and hardware, they are paving the way for a more efficient, predictable, and patient-centered dental experience. As both companies continue to innovate, we can expect even more exciting advancements in the future.

Personally, I love the fact that two companies that make good products have joined forces to create a better outcome for patients.  We are starting to accumulate massive amounts of data as the profession moves to totally digital workflows and having powerful options that work well together are better for everyone involved.

Be Eco-Friendly and Get Rewarded with Hu-Friedy's Environdent Program!

 We all want to help the environment.  That's one of the reasons I'm happy to announce that the HuFriedy Envirodent™ has returned.  The program was paused for a while, but I'm excited to tell you that... it's back!

Looking for a way to declutter your dental instruments and help the environment at the same time? Look no further than Hu-Friedy's Environdent program! This free program allows you to recycle your old scalers, ultrasonic inserts, and surgical instruments, regardless of the brand.

Recycle and Reap the Rewards:

Not only are you doing your part for the environment by keeping dental instruments out of landfills, but you're also rewarded for your participation! Here's how it works:

• Recycle 12 instruments and get 1 FREE Hu-Friedy instrument of your choice!

• Recycle throughout the year – up to 60 instruments and receive up to 5 free instruments!

• Choose from a variety of instruments, including popular scaler designs.

• Enjoy exclusive promotions throughout the year as a participating member.

Easy to Participate:

The Environdent program is simple and convenient. Just visit the Hu-Friedy website or contact their customer service representatives to learn more and request a prepaid shipping label. Box up your old instruments and send them in – it's that easy!

Sustainable Dentistry:

By participating in Hu-Friedy's Environdent program, you're contributing to a more sustainable dental practice. You're reducing waste, conserving resources, and ensuring proper disposal of dental instruments.

Ready to get started? Head over to the Hu-Friedy website or contact them today to learn more about Environdent and be a part of a greener dentistry!

To learn more about the program, follow this link.  

New National Poll Shows Overwhelming Bipartisan Support for Medicare Dental Coverage

 

Here's some pretty interesting info I received from CareQuest Institute for Oral Health®.  Access to care is always a hot topic, no matter what healthcare discipline you happen to discuss.  It's unfortunate truth that no matter how good our healthcare system gets, there will always be unfortunate individuals that will struggle to pay for that care.  Many of those folks are forced to simply do without.  This leads to a loss of quality of life.  It would be great to solve that problem or, at a minimum, at least try to reduce that problem as much as possible.  With that in mind, I was excited to see the following information:

9 in 10 Voters Favor Adding Dental Coverage to Medicare; Survey also Finds Broad Support for Medicaid Adult Dental Benefits and Better Coverage for Veterans


July 16, 2024 (Boston, MA) – A new national poll shows that the vast majority of voters across the political spectrum favor adding dental coverage to Medicare. The results of the poll, commissioned by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health® and the Oral Health Progress and Equity Network (OPEN), show that more than 9 in 10 national voters (92%) support adding a dental benefit to Medicare.

 “These poll results show that people all across our nation understand just how important oral health is to overall health,” said Melissa Burroughs, director of public policy at CareQuest Institute. “No one in this country should have to choose between getting the care they need and putting food on the table. As candidates consider their health care platforms this year, the informed ones will make Medicare dental coverage a top priority.”

Half of all Medicare enrollees don’t have dental coverage, meaning nearly 24 million older Americans lack access to this essential form of health care. Approximately the same number of Medicare enrollees haven’t visited a dentist in 12 months, which has profound implications for the health and well-being of older adults.

The poll revealed that 85% of respondents who voted for Trump in both 2016 and 2020 and 99% of those who voted for the Democrat candidate in those two elections would like to see a dental benefit added to Medicare. When ranking health care topics they find “most important,” voters rank adding dental coverage to Medicare just as highly as abortion and even higher than the future of the Affordable Care Act. Dental care also ranked the highest on the list of services that voters would like to see added to Medicaid.

Additionally, separate polling showed broad support for dental coverage in Medicare in key states for the 2024 presidential election: in Michigan, 91% of voters support it; in Ohio, 92%; and in Pennsylvania, 93%. 

The poll also revealed that 91% of voters want expanded coverage to include dental services for veterans. Additionally, 74% of voters support adding adult dental benefits to Medicaid at the state or federal level.  

The national polling was conducted by Marketing for Change Co. from May 29 – June 4, 2024, using a representative sample of 1,000 registered voters nationwide from the YouGov online panel. The margin of error is +/- 3.1%. Marketing for Change also conducted separate polling in Michigan (n=765), Ohio (n=761) and Pennsylvania (n=760) using the Centiment online panel between May 30 and June 13. The margin of error for those surveys was between +/- 3.54% and +/-3.55%.

About CareQuest Institute for Oral Health®      

CareQuest Institute for Oral Health® is a national nonprofit championing a more equitable future where every person can reach their full potential through excellent health. We do this through our work in philanthropy, analytics and data insights, health transformation, policy and advocacy, and education as well as our leadership in dental benefits and innovation advancements. We collaborate with thought leaders, health care providers, patients, and local, state, and federal stakeholders, to accelerate oral health care transformation and create a system designed for everyone. To learn more, visit carequest.org and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. 

 About the Oral Health Progress and Equity Network (OPEN) 

OPEN, an initiative of CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, is a diverse network of individuals and entities who are taking on America’s oral health challenges so that everyone has a chance to thrive. OPEN members use their unique experiences, knowledge, and skills to lead network activities every year, creating collective energy that is driving large-scale change.  

Heading to Pigeon Forge, TN this Friday & Saturday!

 

This Friday & Saturday (July 19-20) I'll be in Pigeon Forge, TN with two of my very best friends.  Dr. Marty Jablow, Dr. Paul Feuerstein, and I are heading to Tennessee to do a 1 1/2 day lecture on tech advancements in dentistry.

Over the years, the 3 of us have done a lot of these events.  It all started back in Montreal in the early 2000s where we were just hanging out together.  I happened to say, "You know, I'll bet if you put the three of us together in a room, there probably isn't a dental tech question that one of us couldn't answer."  From that little spark of inspiration grew the concept of 3 lecturers all working together to bring info to the profession.  The really funny part of that is that I don't think we've ever gotten a question that one of us couldn't answer.

Doing presentations is actually hard work, both for the speaker *and* the attendees.  Listening to one single person for a day or two can be tough on the audience.  It's easy to let you mind drift after listening to the same voice for an extended period of time.  The great part about three people is there is constant variety.  Different voices, different styles, different topics, different information.  We've found that audiences really enjoy it.

The three of us don't always agree, plus we are NOT above interrupting each other... or occasionally harassing each other.  It's always a good time.

So if you happen to be a dentist in the area who follows this blog, try and make the event.  We'd love to see you there and meet you.  Or if you're interested in having "The Three Amigos" put on event for your study club, drop a comment here and I'll see what we can do to make that happen.  We're always happy for an excuse to get together and if we can help educate our peers, those good times are even better!

Nominations are now Open for the 2024 MouthWatch TeleDentistry Innovation Awards

Dental professionals and business leaders invited to nominate teledentistry and virtual dental care pioneers for recognition at the 7th annual “Tellie” Awards in NYC

MouthWatch, LLC, a leader in developing digital technology solutions that drive success for dental professionals, improve oral health care, and enhance the overall patient experience, has opened nominations for its 7th annual Teledentistry Innovation Awards.  These unique awards, known as “The Tellies,” recognize a broad spectrum of individuals, programs, and organizations, utilizing teledentistry and virtual dental care applications to expand access to care, improve oral health and ultimately enhance overall health and well-being. 

“Tellie award winners have mastered the use of teledentistry to improve oral health,” said Brant Herman, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, MouthWatch and Dentistry, One. “We look forward to honoring these dental pioneers for their innovative role in driving the future of virtual care and the success of the teledentistry programs they have implemented to enhance patient engagement and expand reach into the communities they serve.”

The five Tellie nomination categories represent a wide variety of teledentistry applications:  

• Dentists & Specialists using teledentistry/virtual care in ways that have improved patient journeys and/or clinical workflows.
• Hygienists implementing teledentistry to expand access to care and improve patient care in any setting, public or private.
• Oral Health Programs, including organizations, public health programs, DSOs and other care delivery settings that use teledentistry/virtual care to transform and enhance clinical care and the patient experience.
• Educational Institutions, such as dental/hygiene schools, universities and other education settings that integrate teledentistry into the curriculum or services they provide.
• Industry Innovators, including any person or organization innovating in the dental space where teledentistry/virtual care plays a key role.

2024 Tellie Award winners will each receive: 

• A cash grant of $1,000.00.
• An invitation to be honored at the 2024 Tellie Awards ceremony event in New York City.
• Recognition of their business, practice, or program in a nationally distributed press release, social media posts, and as a special feature story for publication.

“Every year the Tellie Awards become more exciting as the nominations reflect technology advances and the application of teledentistry for improved access to care and patient outcomes becomes more sophisticated – including use of teledentistry to digitally bridge dental and medical care,” added Herman. 

Nominations are open until October 1, 2024. Self-nominations are welcome and can be submitted on The Tellie Award website, teledentistryinnovationawards.com. Tellie Award winners will be announced during the 2024 Greater New York Dental Meeting taking place November 29 - December 4, 2024. The location and time of the invitation-only Tellie Awards event will be announced separately. Learn about previous Tellie Awards winners here.

About MouthWatch, LLC 

MouthWatch, LLC, is a leader in developing digital technology solutions that drive success for dental professionals, improve oral health care, and enhance the overall patient experience.

Headquartered in Metuchen, New Jersey, MouthWatch is widely known for its intraoral cameras that help engage patients in treatment planning through high-quality, affordable imaging technology, and its TeleDent teledentistry software that provides practices and organizations with a teledentistry option to engage patients with providers remotely.  

MouthWatch recently launched Dentistry.One, a virtual-first dental care network that addresses the expectations of today’s modern healthcare consumers, the need for greater efficiency in healthcare, and the proven connection between good oral health and total health. Dentistry.One features dental consultations available anytime, from anywhere, personalized care coordination, and oral health coaching for prioritizing oral health. 

MouthWatch hardware and software is in use at over 42,000 practices, over 30 leading Dental Service Organizations (DSOs), and over 100 dental schools. The company has been recognized three times in the Inc. 5000.

For more information, visit mouthwatch.com. or dentistry.one.