LCS Westminster Partnership IV, LLP d/b/a Sagewood, is reporting what they describe as a ransomware attack without any ransom demand:
Sagewood, a retirement community located at 4555 E Mayo Blvd. in Phoenix, has notified 800 current and former residents and the Department of Health and Human Services of a cyber breach. Sagewood promptly investigated the attack, engaged a forensics firm and took steps to protect against such breaches in the future by upgrading its security standards.
On Sept. 29, 2016, Sagewood discovered that the ransomware attack may have gained unauthorized access to employee and resident information as well as health insurance claim information. The resident and health insurance information may have included names, addresses, dates of birth, phone numbers, social security numbers, and possibly Medicare numbers or national identification numbers.
Sagewood worked quickly to block the cyber attackers and one hour after the discovery was made, Sagewood was able to confirm total containment of the malicious ransomware.
Based on the nature of the attack, the short time involved and the fact that they were never requested to pay money in response to the ransomware, Sagewood does not believe that a “hacker” was looking to compromise or misuse identities or personal information.
Sagewood has encouraged its residents to take preventive measures to help prevent and detect any unauthorized use of personal information, place fraud alerts on credit cards and remain vigilant by reviewing payment card statements for any unauthorized activity.
Sagewood deeply regrets any inconvenience or concern this may have caused and remains committed to keeping personal information safe. Additional questions can be directed to Sagewood’s Executive Director, Stewart Ingram at 480-384-5809.
SOURCE: Sagewood