Recently, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that information from 200,000 individuals was stolen in a phishing attack that compromised the credentials of 53 employees. The attackers were able to access and exfiltrate sensitive information such as names, birthdates, Social Security numbers, health insurance details, diagnoses, prescriptions, patient IDs, Medicare/Med-Cal numbers, medical record numbers, and other financial data.
This incident is the latest in a series of phishing attacks affecting the county. In recent years, attacks on the Department of Health Services and Department of Mental Health have impacted thousands of individuals. These incidents highlight the importance of cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access to personal data.
In response to this incident, the DPH has taken action by deactivating all affected email accounts and blocking the websites involved in the phishing campaign. While it is unclear if the stolen information has been accessed or misused, individuals are advised to review the information in their medical records with their healthcare provider to ensure its accuracy.
It’s important for everyone to be vigilant about protecting their personal information online. Phishing attacks are becoming increasingly common and can be difficult to spot unless you know what to look out for. Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources and always verify the authenticity of websites before providing any sensitive information.
The DPH advises individuals not only to take immediate action but also to remain vigilant about protecting their personal data in general. This includes regularly updating passwords and enabling two-factor authentication when possible. Additionally, it’s recommended that individuals monitor their credit reports regularly for any signs of fraudulent activity.
In conclusion, this incident highlights the importance of taking cybersecurity seriously and being proactive in protecting your personal data online. It’s crucial for organizations like the DPH to prioritize cybersecurity measures and work towards preventing these types of attacks from happening again in the future.