Cybersecurity Case Study
Proactive Monitoring and Expert Response Contain Cyber Threat and Minimize Impact at Dental Practice
In May 2025, a multi-operatory specialty dental practice experienced a serious cybersecurity incident involving suspicious network activity, unauthorized remote access, and clear signs of credential compromise. Although the client retained a third-party security vendor, it was Sunset Technologies’ Security Operations Center (SOC) that detected the threat—well before any alerts were issued.
Thanks to Sunset’s proactive detection tools, real-time visibility, and decisive incident response, the threat was quickly isolated and contained. Sunset’s efforts prevented further spread, data loss, reputational damage, and significant financial impact.
The Challenge
At 1:20 AM, Sunset’s SOC detected suspicious activity where someone appeared to gain access to systems they shouldn’t have, misusing login credentials.
- Firewall protection had expired several months prior, leaving the perimeter exposed.
- Remote access protocols were open and protected by weak credentials.
- Unapproved remote access software had been installed, allowing backdoor entry into the network.
Had these issues gone undetected, the practice faced a high likelihood of system takeover, ransomware deployment, or data exfiltration.
The Response
Upon detection, Sunset’s team took immediate action:
- Isolated all systems to prevent unauthorized movement across the network.
- Conducted a comprehensive forensic review of network activity, credentials, and endpoints
- Hardened the environment by resetting passwords, disabling remote protocols, and restoring firewall protections.
- Verified integrity of clinical systems and ensured imaging and practice management platforms remained fully functional.
Throughout the process, the Sunset team delivered consistent, clear communication with the client, ensuring they were informed and supported through every step.
The Result
- No data loss. No breach. Minimal disruption to clinical operations
- Full system recovery within 48 hours
- HIPAA breach and data loss avoided
- No reputational damage
- Hardened security posture and improved long-term readiness
Impact & Savings Snapshot
Sunset’s expert response delivered measurable protection:
| HIPAA Breach Averted: | Minimized Downtime: |
 Avoided costs: |
Sunset response: 1 full day offline+partial access Day 2 |
| Remediation & forensics: $50,000–$60,000 |
Typical insurance-led process: 10+ business days |
| HIPAA reporting/legal: $100,000–$125,000+ |
|
| Reputation damage & public disclosure |
Insurance Premium Increase Avoided |
| Government investigation response: $100,000+ |
Lesson & Recommendations
The successful response underscores the importance of:
- Proactive detection—not reactive response
- Regular firewall and endpoint security maintenance
- Limiting and controlling all remote access pathways
- Partnering with a dental-focused security team that understands the clinical environment
Post-incident recommendations included enhanced password policies, restricted administrative access, security awareness training, and regular cybersecurity audits.
Why Sunset’s Integrated Approach Matters
When it comes to cybersecurity, not all solutions are created equal. Many third-party SOC providers only monitor and report threats—leaving remediation and resolution to the client’s IT team. At Sunset Technologies, we offer something more powerful: a fully integrated solution.
We combine proactive 24/7/365 SOC monitoring with hands-on IT resolution and support. That means when a threat is detected, we don’t just alert—we act. Our Network Operations Center (NOC) and SOC work together to contain, remediate, and restore without delay or confusion.
The Sunset Advantage:
- One set of tools. One accountable team. No duplicative software. No extra agents.
- Faster resolution. The same team that sees the alert resolves it—limiting downtime.
- No tool conflicts. Our stack is fully integrated and optimized for dental environments.
- Clear, consistent communication. No third-party handoffs. Just one trusted partner.
- Remediation and reporting included. We don’t leave you in crisis—we guide you out of it.
For practices that need forensic-level investigation or insurance documentation, we also offer these services as an optional add-on—ensuring compliance, clarity, and peace of mind.
Sunset isn’t just your security partner—we’re your IT partner.
That’s the difference between coverage and confidence.
Conclusion
This case is a powerful reminder that in today’s threat landscape, security cannot be an afterthought. Sunset Technologies’ integrated approach to uptime, performance, and security allowed for a fast, effective response—protecting the practice from what could have been a damaging breach.
This is what it means to feel Rest Assured.
Is your environment ready for a real-world threat?
Don’t wait for a crisis to find out.
Let’s make sure your practice is protected before it needs to be recovered
