Northern Virginia Oral, (“NOVA OMS”), has recently disclosed a data security incident that may have impacted data belonging to certain patients and guarantors. This incident was discovered on October 5, 2023, when NOVA OMS identified unusual activity on its network. Subsequently, an investigation revealed that an unknown criminal actor gained unauthorized access to the network between October 3 – 6, 2023, and accessed or acquired certain files containing personal or protected health information. After confirming the potential impact on patients and guarantors on February 28, 2024, NOVA OMS promptly took steps to notify the affected individuals through written notification via US mail on March 27, 2024.
While there is no evidence of misuse of the potentially affected information, NOVA OMS has proactively informed the impacted individuals about the incident and provided guidance on measures to protect their information. The potentially impacted information may include names, Social Security numbers, individual tax identification numbers, driver’s license or state identification numbers, dates of birth, patient IDs, medical information, and health insurance information. NOVA OMS has also taken additional measures to enhance network security and minimize the risk of similar incidents in the future, demonstrating a commitment to addressing and preventing such security challenges.
To further address the concerns of affected individuals, NOVA OMS has established a toll-free call center, available Monday through Friday, to answer questions and provide support regarding the incident. Through these actions, NOVA OMS prioritizes the privacy and protection of personal and protected health information, aiming to mitigate any inconvenience or concern caused by the incident.
