Healthcare security: Write login details on whiteboard, hope for the best
The Register
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent incident at a UK medical center has raised serious concerns about healthcare security after login details were found displayed on a whiteboard. This practice, though replacing the more common Post-it note method, still poses significant risks by exposing sensitive information to potential breaches. The situation highlights a gap in NHS guidelines, which currently lack specific directives against such open displays of credentials.
The article underscores the importance of secure password practices and the vulnerabilities that come with exposed login details. Despite existing guidelines advising against using single words or common passwords, the incident shows how easily these measures can be circumvented when information is left visible to everyone. The author humorously notes that while passkeys offer a more secure alternative by eliminating password reuse issues and phishing risks, they are still not widely implemented.
This story matters to tech readers as it illustrates ongoing challenges in cybersecurity, particularly within sensitive sectors like healthcare. It emphasizes the need for better security protocols and highlights the potential of emerging solutions like passkeys to address traditional password weaknesses. The incident serves as a reminder that even minor lapses in security can have serious consequences, underlining the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding digital information.
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Originally published on The Register on 2/19/2026