Here’s yet another ransomware incident in which investigators couldn’t really determine whether ePHI were actually accessed, so the entity notified HHS and is notifying patients. In this case, we are dealing with what could be treatment information for more stigmatizing conditions such as alcoholism or addiction. According to their report to HHS, 25,148 patients are being notified. The press release, below, does not indicate what kind of ransomware or whether the entity paid any ransom.
LEBANON, Conn., May 10, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — The Southeastern Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (“SCADD”) is providing notice of a recent data privacy event that may have affected certain personal information. The confidentiality, privacy, and security of information is one of SCADD’s highest priorities and the organization takes this matter seriously. To date, SCADD has not received any reports that personal information has been misused as a result of this incident.
What Happened? On February 18, 2019, SCADD discovered certain disruptions in its network. Upon further review, it was determined that our systems were infected with ransomware. SCADD immediately began an investigation to determine the nature and scope of the event. This investigation included working with third-party forensic experts. Once SCADD systems were secure, our efforts focused on determining what information was potentially impacted, to whom the information related, and valid address information for those individuals to notify them of the event. Although we found no evidence that any personal information was actually accessed, the possibility exists, which is why we are providing this notice.
What Information Was Involved? Through the ongoing investigation, SCADD determined that the information present on its systems impacted by this event may include affected individuals’ name, address, Social Security number, as well as medical history and treatment information.
What We Are Doing. SCADD is individually notifying those whose information was present on the affected systems. As an added precaution, the organization is offering these individuals access to credit monitoring and identity protection services at no cost.
What You Can Do. SCADD encourages individuals to review the information below related to “Steps Individuals Can Take to Protect Against Identity Theft and Fraud,” which provides detail on how to better protect against possible misuse of information. Affected individuals can find guidance in the letters being sent to them and SCADD is making information available about this event on its website.
For More Information. Individuals who may have questions about the incident, may contact the dedicated assistance line at 1-800-494-5419, Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
You can read the full notification on Yahoo!