IT Security Update: Change Healthcare (now Optum) Data Incident

Last month we notified the community regarding an incident involving Change Healthcare, a third-party platform to many healthcare providers across the country, and would like to provide an update. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has authorized UnitedHealth Group to directly notify individuals whose information was involved in the recent data incident at Change Healthcare. While notifications have not yet been issued, there have been some reports of potential scams related to this incident. It's important to exercise caution with any unsolicited communications claiming to be associated with a data incident. Tips to Avoid Potential Scams:

1. Be wary of unsolicited phone calls, emails, or text messages claiming to be from UnitedHealth Group, Change Healthcare, or Optum regarding the data breach
2. Never provide personal or financial information in response to unsolicited communications
3. Legitimate organizations will not demand payment or offer refunds related to a data breach

Please remain vigilant and prioritize the protection of your personal information.

More information:

·         The HIPAA Journal

·         Reuters

·         HealthExec

If you have any questions, please contact the Information Security Team by emailing itsecurity@fairfield.edu.