Health Information Management

Q: Is it possible for unauthorized individuals to intercept cordless phone conversations?

HIPAA Weekly Advisor, May 14, 2007

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A: Yes. If the cordless phone is old or does not operate at a great enough frequency, scanners or other communication devices can pick up conversations. To safeguard conversations, purchase a cordless phone that operates at 2.4 GHz or greater. These cordless phones tend to offer maximum security because they operate above the range that scanners cover, they almost always transmit digitally, and they generally employ spread spectrum technology (providing added security/conversation privacy) as well.

Editor's note: Chris Apgar, president of Portland, OR-based Apgar & Associates, LLC, answered this question. This is not legal advice. Consult your attorney for legal matters.



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