On March 18. 2024, M&D Capital Premier Billing LLC sent a breach notification letter to affected individuals.
What happened
At the estimated date of July 8, 2023, M&D Capital Premier Billing LLC, discovered suspicious activity within their computer systems. The organization launched an investigation with the aid of third-party forensic experts to assess the nature and extent of the unauthorized access. This investigation revealed that from June 20, 2023, an unauthorized threat actor had gained access to certain systems, potentially accessing or acquiring files that included sensitive demographic and healthcare information of 284326 affected individuals. This data may encompass:
- Names
- Addresses
- Medical billing
- Insurance details
- Certain medical information such as diagnoses, medications, treatments
- Financial information.
See also: How to retain patients after a data breach
What was said
According to M&D: “We take the confidentiality, privacy, and security of information in our possession seriously. Upon learning of the malicious activity, we promptly notified law enforcement and took steps to further secure our systems and investigate the event. As part of our ongoing commitment to the privacy of personal information in our care, we reviewed our existing policies and procedures and implemented additional administrative and technical safeguards to help prevent future attacks. We also worked with third-party subject matter specialists to further enhance the security of our systems.”
See also: What is a data breach?
What happens next
To help those affected monitor and protect their personal information, M&D is providing access to free Single Bureau Credit Monitoring, Credit Report, and Credit Score services for twelve months. Affected individuals are encouraged to enroll in these services within 90 days from the date of the notice to receive alerts on changes to their credit file and proactive fraud assistance. Additionally, M&D advises everyone impacted to remain vigilant by regularly reviewing their account statements, credit reports, and healthcare insurance information for any signs of irregular activity or unauthorized charges, and to consider placing fraud alerts and security freezes on their credit files.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
FAQs
What is a data breach?
A data breach occurs when unauthorized individuals gain access to private and confidential information. This can include personal details such as names, addresses, Social Security numbers, medical records, or financial data.
Can a data breach affect my credit score?
A data breach itself does not directly affect your credit score. However, if stolen information is used to open fraudulent accounts or make unauthorized transactions, your credit score could be impacted.
What is credit monitoring, and should I use it?
Credit monitoring services track your credit report at one or more of the major credit bureaus and alert you to any changes, such as new accounts opened in your name.
Kirsten Peremore
