The online database, which was first reported on March 25 by a Twitter user named “Flash Gordon,” contained names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and health insurance information, along with other personal and health data from the almost 1 million consumers. The majority of the records included consumers with large insurers like Aetna, Cigna and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
An investigation by ZDNet and databreaches.net concluded telemarketers at HealthNow Networks used this information to market medical products. HealthNow Networks, which sold medical supplies and equipment to older diabetes patients, is no longer listed as a registered business. The company ceased operations in 2015 after it failed to file an annual report with the state, according to ZDNet.
The data has since been secured and the online database was deleted, according to ZDNet.
More articles on health IT:
McKesson acquires CoverMyMeds
CMS: 10 innovative hospital programs
AI to replace 38% of US jobs by 2030: How will healthcare fare?
