When you go to your doctor, whether for a check-up or major surgery, you expect a level of privacy and security regarding your health and medical decisions. That’s why receiving a notice that your patient information was involved in a data breach can be incredibly upsetting. The following blog explores why these organizations are often targeted by thieves and hackers. Additionally, you’ll learn the importance of taking measures to mitigate damages following a medical data breach with the assistance of a California identity theft victim lawyer.
Why Are Medical Providers Often Targets of Data Breaches?
Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons that healthcare and medical providers are often the targets of data breaches. Generally, big corporations, like hospital systems, are often willing to pay a considerable amount of money in ransom to recover the compromised files. This is because these files not only contain payment and personal information but are filled with sensitive medical details about patients.
Another common reason that hackers target medical providers is that these organizations are often ill-equipped to handle breaches. Doctors’ offices and other healthcare professionals may not have the necessary cybersecurity systems in place to help keep hackers out of their networks. As such, it can be easy for thieves to circumvent the measures in place to compromise the information of patients.
Finally, you’ll find that medical providers store a considerable amount of information on patients, from payment methods and billing addresses to dates of birth and even social security numbers. As such, this makes these prime targets for identity theft, as this information can be packaged and sold for high value on the dark web.
What Steps Should I Take Following a Medical Data Breach?
Receiving a notice that your information was involved in a data breach can be incredibly unsettling. Not only can identity theft negatively impact your finances, but having your personal and medical details in the hands of a stranger can be upsetting. Regardless, it’s imperative to remain calm and take the necessary steps to protect yourself during these difficult times.
Generally, one of the most important things you should do upon discovering that your identity has been compromised is to contact the credit reporting agencies to report the theft and request that a fraud alert be placed on your report. This can help prevent the thief from opening accounts in your name, as the creditor is required to confirm your identity first.
You should also update the login information for associated accounts, as this can help prevent the thief from accessing your information. You may also wish to enable two-factor authentication on your devices, which can help keep unauthorized parties out of your accounts, even if they have your login information.
Identity theft can be incredibly overwhelming and difficult to navigate. If you’ve experienced adverse impacts because of poor cybersecurity by a medical provider and need help fighting for justice, the team at Loker Law is ready to assist you. Our team understands how upsetting these times can be, which is why we are proud to help guide you through these difficult times. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
