Here are four recent data breach affecting dental practices:
1. Minneapolis-based The Dental Specialists experienced a data breach that affects an estimated 38,442 individuals. On Jan. 23, the practice became aware of unauthorized access to a number of employee email accounts, leading to an unauthorized actor potentially viewing or accessing information stored in the accounts.
2. Kinsler Family Dentistry in Frankfort, Ind., experienced a data security incident affecting 5,500 individuals. An investigation determined that on or about June 6, an unauthorized actor acquired certain files stored in the practice's network, some of which contained personal information, including that of former and current patients.
3. New York City-based Aire Dental Arts became aware in June that certain computer systems were inaccessible because of a malicious file encryption. An investigation determined that a threat actor gained access to a limited number of the practice's systems and that certain files in those systems were accessed.
4. Roseburg, Ore.-based Sutton Dental Arts became aware in April of certain computer systems that were inaccessible due to malicious file encryption. An investigation determined that an unknown actor gained access to certain systems and files related to personal health information.
To see 10 other data breaches affecting the dental industry this year, click here.