Backup Tape With Private Details Stolen From Greensboro Gynecology Associates
Patients at a Greensboro doctors’ office have been notified that their personal information – including Social Security numbers and addresses – was stolen in May. In a letter mailed to patients, Greensboro Gynecology Associates said a backup tape of their computer database was stolen. The letter was dated June 16, but some letters weren’t postmarked until July 9.
The medical practice said a backup tape of patient information was stolen on May 29 from an employee who was taking the tape to an off-site storage facility for safekeeping. The stolen information included patients’ name, address, Social Security number, employer, insurance company, policy numbers and family members. The tape did not include treatment or specific medical data. The data was not encrypted, but Greensboro Gynecology Associates said the stolen data isn’t likely to be accessed.
The practice at 719 Green Valley Road Suite 305 said personal information for its physicians and other staff members also was on the stolen tape.
It is unclear how many patients were affected, how the theft occurred and whether anything else was taken. The practice’s letter said the theft had been reported to police. However, officials with the Greensboro Police Department and the Guilford County Sheriff’s Office said they had no such report on file.
Greensboro Gynecology Associates said they are consulting with computer security experts to prevent similar thefts in the future.
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