Computer theft at contractor office cause of Calif. breach

Los Angeles County medical facilities are notifying about 168,500 patients that their information is at risk following the theft of computer equipment from the offices of the county’s contractor, Sutherland Healthcare Solutions (SHS), according to the Los Angeles Times and the official notice sent to patients.

The patients may have had their data stolen in a break-in at SHS in early February, the article said.

Personal information compromised includes first and last names, Social Security numbers, billing information, birth dates, addresses, diagnoses and other medical information. SHS and L.A. County are working with law enforcement to investigate the break-in. Also, the contractor is reviewing its policies and procedures and has provided additional training to its employees, according to the official notice.

To rectify the situation, affected patients are receiving free access to credit monitoring services.

“We sincerely regret any inconvenience or concern this matter may have caused you. Thank you for your patience and understanding while we work together to protect you and your family,” the notice said.