How We Prevent Unauthorized Access on Shared Devices

Audience: all

Using shared devices for telemedicine can be convenient but also raises important privacy concerns. Unauthorized access to your health information can happen if proper protections are not in place. This guide explains practical steps to keep your medical data safe when using shared devices. It covers how to manage passwords, use private browsing modes, and clear device history. We also highlight warning signs that your information might be at risk and explain what telemedicine can and cannot do to protect your privacy. By following these tips, you can help ensure your telehealth visits remain confidential and secure, even on devices shared with others.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Receiving unexpected password reset emails or login alerts.
• Noticing unfamiliar devices or locations accessing your telemedicine account.
• Discovering saved passwords or autofill information you did not authorize.

What telemedicine can do

• Encrypting your communication with healthcare providers.
• Authenticating your identity before visits.
• Providing instructions on maintaining privacy.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physically securing shared devices from other users.
• Preventing others from viewing your screen during a session.
• Managing device settings or clearing saved data on shared hardware.

Why Privacy Matters on Shared Devices

Shared devices like family computers, public kiosks, or workstations can be accessed by multiple people. Without proper safeguards, your personal health information may be exposed to others. Protecting your privacy helps maintain trust and confidentiality in telemedicine visits.

Practical Steps to Prevent Unauthorized Access

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Recognizing Red Flags of Privacy Breaches

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If you notice any of these signs, change your passwords immediately and contact your telemedicine provider.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

**Can Handle:**

**Cannot Handle:**

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit on a Shared Device

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After Your Telemedicine Visit

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Notify others you will be using the device for a private telemedicine visit.
• Close all unrelated applications and browser tabs.
• Use private or incognito browsing mode if available.
• Have your login credentials ready but do not save them on the device.
• Use headphones to protect audio privacy.
• Ensure the device has updated software and antivirus protection.

After your tele-visit

• Log out completely from the telemedicine platform.
• Clear browsing history, cache, and cookies.
• Turn off or lock the device if leaving it unattended.
• Monitor your telemedicine account for unusual activity.
• Report any suspected privacy breaches to your healthcare provider.

FAQs

Can I use any shared device for my telemedicine visit?

You can use shared devices, but it is safer to use a personal device if possible. If you must use a shared device, take extra steps like using private browsing and logging out completely to protect your privacy.

What should I do if I think someone accessed my telemedicine account without permission?

Immediately change your password and notify your telemedicine provider. Monitor your account for any unusual activity and consider enabling two-factor authentication for added security.

Does telemedicine software save my health information on the device?

Most telemedicine platforms store information on secure servers, not on your device. However, some data like login credentials or cached pages may be saved locally unless you use private browsing or clear your history.

How can I protect my privacy if others are nearby during my telemedicine visit?

Use headphones to keep audio private and position your screen away from others. If possible, find a private space or wait until you have more privacy to conduct your visit.

Sources

1. Protecting Your Privacy in Telehealth — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telehealth Privacy and Security Considerations — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Patient Privacy and Confidentiality in Telemedicine — Mayo Clinic.
4. Privacy and Security in Telehealth — Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ).

This guide provides general information about protecting your privacy on shared devices during telemedicine visits. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or in-person care. If you have concerns about your health or privacy, please consult a healthcare provider directly.