Search Privacy Violations, Breaches and Complaints
This database was last updated in December 2015 ago and should only be used as a historical snapshot. More recent data on breaches affecting 500 or more people is available at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Breach Portal.
Sierra Pacific Network (VISN 21)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on January 11, 2013. Also cited in 141 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000084558, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 21 San Francisco, CA
Issue:
A San Francisco VAMC physician called to report receipt of a UPS express envelope that was opened and then reclosed (stapled shut) buy an unknown person. The physician reported the envelope was mailed by the VA Southern Nevada HCS and was clearly addressed to her. She did not know who opened the mailer. The packet and copies of the contents were hand carried to the Privacy Officer. The Mail Room Supervisor was contacted and stated they have not implemented use of a stamp to notify employees when Mail Room staff open incoming mail but said they never staple mailing envelopes closed, they re-seal them with tape. The facility cannot determine who opened the mailing package. Update: 01/11/13:Due to the fact it is unknown who opened the mail, Veteran A will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.
Outcome:
Credit monitoring letter sent, and Mail Room staff now document when they must open receivables in the Mail Room. No additional mitigating actions are required since we could not determine who opened the UPS mailing envelope