Medical Device Company Data Breach: 4 Million People's Information Accessed

A large medical device manufacturer has notified nearly 4 million people that their personal information was accessed in a data breach. The stolen information includes Social Security numbers and health-related data. The company stated it has no evidence that the information has been posted publicly on the internet.

If you or a family member uses medical devices from a major manufacturer, you may be affected. The breach exposed sensitive information that could be used for identity theft or medical fraud. Watch for notification letters from the company if you are among those impacted.

1. Read the letter carefully to understand what information was taken.
2. Monitor your credit reports for suspicious activity at AnnualCreditReport.com.
3. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three credit bureaus.
4. Watch your medical insurance statements for services you did not receive.
5. Be extra cautious of phone calls or emails asking for personal information, as scammers may use stolen data to make their messages seem legitimate. To protect yourself long term, check your credit reports regularly throughout the year. Review all medical bills and insurance statements when they arrive. Never share your Social Security number unless absolutely necessary. Keep records of all communications related to the breach. Consider signing up for any free credit monitoring services the company offers to affected individuals.