GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – We want to give you an update on the Consumer First Alert about a massive healthcare data breach that we first reported about six months ago.
Viewers are reaching out to Action 2 News because they received a letter saying their personal medical information may have been involved in a data breach.
You probably don’t know about Change Healthcare, but you probably know their customers. It is a technology company owned by UnitedHealth Group, which partners with many doctors, insurance plans, and medical companies.
The company reported a large-scale ransomware attack in February. This disrupted the services of thousands of clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies.
One in three Americans was reportedly affected, but the company did not provide specific numbers. UnitedHealthcare’s CEO told a Senate committee that the company paid the hackers $22 million.
People are asking, if this happened in February, why are we being notified now?
Change Healthcare says the letters are mailed regularly.
According to UnitedHealth Group’s website, the company began mailing notices to people affected by the incident on July 29.
Change Healthcare is committed to notifying potentially affected individuals as early as possible and regularly given the amount and complexity of data involved.
Here’s how identity theft experts recommend it:
First, check for infringement notifications. If you receive it via email or text message, it is most likely a scam. UnitedHealth Group says it is sending notifications by mail. Visit Change Healthcare’s consumer support page. There is also information about the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Freeze your credit. This prevents them from opening new credit accounts in your name. Companies offer free credit monitoring. Take advantage and sign up or take your own steps. Please change your medical account password. Identity theft experts recommend a unique passphrase of at least 12 characters. Watch what you say for suspicious activity. Pay attention to statements from your healthcare provider, insurance, and bank.
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