An unauthorized user gained access June 19 to a server that stored patient information at Providence-based Rhode Island Ear, Nose and Throat Physicians, according to the HIPAA Journal.
The physician network is alerting 2,943 patients about the data breach. RIENT was able to secure the network the same day the hackers gained access.
Upon further investigations, RIENT discovered the server contained medical records of patients who received care between May 1 and June 12. There is no indication that patient information has been viewed, copied or misused.
Patient data stored in the server included names, dates of birth and clinical information. A limited number of Social Security numbers may have also been affected.
To help prevent future cybersecurity incidents, RIENT has added technical safeguards.