#48 - Why Ignoring Cybersecurity Could Sink Your Telemedicine Practice: AI Threats, Breaches, and How to Fight Back

This episode is sponsored by Lightstone DIRECT. Lightstone DIRECT invites you to partner with a $12B AUM real estate institution as you grow your portfolio. Access the same single-asset multifamily and industrial deals Lightstone pursues with its own capital – Lightstone co-invests a minimum of 20% in each deal alongside individual investors like you. You’re an institution. Time to invest like one.__________________________What if securing your telemedicine practice against AI-driven scams and data breaches was as straightforward as using a VPN and asking the right questions?In this essential episode of Telemedicine Talks, hosts Phoebe Gutierrez and Dr. Leo Damasco sits down with Cordell Robinson, as he unpacks the cybersecurity threats facing telemedicine providers, from public WiFi vulnerabilities at hotels and airports to AI-powered phishing and deepfakes. He discusses his journey from Navy intelligence to cybersecurity expert, enforcement trends like HIPAA penalties, and how Brownstone's new Compliance Aid app simplifies audits for pros and beginners alike. If you're in telemedicine and concerned about 2026 AI risks or compliance costs, this is your guide to proactive protection, shielding patients, dodging lawsuits, and leveraging security as a business advantage.Three Actionable Takeaways:Secure your connections: Avoid public WiFi for sensitive calls; use a personal hotspot or install VPNs like NordVPN, Norton, or built-in Apple/Google options on devices. Ensure passwords are over 17 characters and enable biometrics, but verify airline or hotel security measures before connecting mid-flight.Spot AI scams and phishing: Look for pattern recognition in calls. Robotic responses, mismatched mouth movements, or overly pointed personal questions. Never log into accounts during suspicious calls; wait 24 hours and use a separate device or contact your bank directly to verify.Prioritize compliance proactively: Invest in phased cybersecurity like HIPAA or NIST via tools such as the Compliance Aid app to assess controls e.g., access, physical security. Hold AI vendors accountable by asking about governance, human oversight, and past fixes. Treat it like annual health checkups to avoid reputational damage and financial penalties.About the Show:Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.About the Guest:Cordell Robinson is CEO of Brownstone Consulting Firm, a cybersecurity expert with over 15 years leading the firm. A philanthropist and decorated US Navy veteran in military intelligence, he blends software engineering, law school insights, and compliance expertise to protect sensitive data in healthcare and beyond. His new Compliance Aid app demystifies frameworks like FISMA, FedRAMP, and SCADA for easy implementation. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/cordell-robinson-a2213a4 Email: [email protected]: https://www.bcf-us.comInstagram: @brownstone_consulting_firmAbout the Hosts:Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health.Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/ [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.