River Region Cardiology Associates has disclosed a data breach that compromised the sensitive personal and protected health information of 500,000 individuals. The breach was reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights on December 11, 2024.
What happened
River Region Cardiology Associates, a healthcare provider, recently announced that it fell victim to a data breach. While the organization has not specified the exact type of information compromised, such breaches typically include personal information such as names, Social Security Numbers, and dates of birth, as well as health information like medical records and insurance details. The breach has left hundreds of thousands of patients vulnerable to identity theft and financial fraud, prompting an investigation by the national consumer advocacy law firm Levi & Korsinsky, LLP.
Why it matters
Data breaches of this scale can have long-lasting consequences for affected individuals. Stolen personal and health information can be exploited by cybercriminals for fraudulent activities, including identity theft, financial fraud, and medical fraud. Identity theft involves using stolen Social Security Numbers and names to open fraudulent accounts, while financial fraud can include accessing bank accounts or applying for loans in victims’ names. Medical fraud may involve using stolen health information to obtain medical services or prescriptions.
What’s next
Levi & Korsinsky, LLP is investigating whether affected individuals are eligible for compensation. Stating that if patients received a data breach notification letter from River Region Cardiology Associates, they may be entitled to financial recovery. The law firm is offering free consultations to determine eligibility, with no cost or obligation to participate.
FAQs
How do I know if I was affected?
If you received a data breach notification letter from River Region Cardiology Associates, you are likely affected. The letter will provide details about the breach and steps you can take to protect yourself.
What should I do if my data was compromised?
If your data was compromised, monitor your bank accounts, credit reports, and medical records for suspicious activity. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit file to prevent unauthorized access. You may also want to consult with legal experts to explore compensation options.
