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.
VA Great Lakes Health Care System (VISN 12)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on July 24, 2012. Also cited in 130 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000078242, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 12 North Chicago, IL
Issue:
A VA Housekeeper delivered to Privacy Officer a document which was found in outdoor recycle bin, Nurse Supervisor determined who disposed of the information based on handwriting comparison. Update: 07/30/12:It is not known specifically how long the documents were in the container. The documents could have been in the container for up to a week, as the container is checked once a week. Current estimate is 57 affected individuals, however, there are several duplicate names. A final count will be provided as soon as the review of the documents is complete.07/30/12:After duplicates were removed, 25 individuals are affected. Twenty-five (25) individuals will receive letters offering credit protection services due to full name and full SSN being out of control and potentially accessible by unauthorized viewers for up to one week.
Outcome:
Education was provided to the Nurse about the importance of protecting personal information and of the related policies. ISOs recommend this ticket be closed. Thank you. PO provided education to the nurse. Nurses supervisor is considering disciplinary action.