If you are like me, you might not realize from their original headline, “Department of Human Services Alerts Pennsylvanians of Compass System Error” that they’re talking about a breach involving PHI. I just figured North was pointing South for a while or something like that…. Anyway, here is the notice that explains their recent report to HHS. This was dated July 13, 2018:
Harrisburg , PA – The Department of Human Services (DHS) today announced that a system error in DHS’ Compass system temporarily allowed people to view information related to people who were, at one point, part of the same benefit household. The system error has been corrected and client information is no longer viewable by previous household members.
The information that could have been viewed included full name, date of birth, citizenship, and all reported employment information. Social Security numbers were not viewable. There is no indication that information was misused.
DHS identified the system error on May 23, 2018. The system error could have caused individuals to see some information of persons who were formerly a part of their benefit household but now belong to a different active case record.
The Department sent letters to the 2,130 affected individuals to notify them of the incident and options for obtaining free credit reports so they can monitor their credit activity and report any unauthorized actions.
Individuals with questions can contact the Statewide Customer Service Center at 1.877.395.8930 or email [email protected].