State investigators are probing a burglary at the Department of Developmental Services that has now prompted a warning about a potential data breach.
" ... People who broke into the building had access to the health information of about 582,000 individuals served by DDS," said a press release issued Friday by DDS Director Nancy Bargmann. "They also had access to the personal information of about 15,000 employees of regional centers, service providers, applicants seeking employment with the Department’s audits office, and parents of minors enrolled in DDS programs. DDS immediately notified law enforcement authorities when the incident occurred, and an investigation is ongoing."
DDS has taken numerous steps in the aftermath of the February break-in, in which a fire was started. That triggered sprinklers, and the ensuing water damage affected computers and documents. The department immediately began an internal investigation, analyzed the network to confirm that there was no breach, hired experts to guide the department’s response, and asked for a state administrative investigation.
"The Department will enhance building security safeguards and our procedures and practices, and will work towards reducing any potential risks arising from this incident and preventing any future incidents," the release said.
The department's lengthy release addresses "What happened, what information was involved, what we are doing, what you can do, and other important information." Among other things, it provides information about possible financial risks to those whose information may have been compromised.
It concludes: "DDS understands the importance of personal information, and sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience this incident may cause."
