U of Kentucky breach could affect 2,027 patients
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Sometime between June 18 and June 21, a laptop computer containing information from the Newborn Screening Program was stolen from the department of pediatrics newborn screening program, according to the university. The theft was reported to the UK Police Department which is handling the investigation.
In a notice on its website, the university stated that it does not believe the laptop, which had been stored in a locked private office, was stolen for the information it contained or that any information has been released or used. Access to the laptop was password-protected although the hard drive was not encrypted. Information on the laptop consists of patient names, medical record numbers, dates of birth, diagnoses, mothers' names, and in some instances, the social security numbers of some of the mothers in the newborn screening program.
However, according to UK, no credit card, debit card or bank account numbers were in this information. The parents or guardians of affected patients, who were notified by mail, are encouraged to stay alert for signs of identity fraud.
“We apologize for any inconvenience this has caused our patients. We remain committed to our patients’ security and satisfaction,” the UK statement declared.