Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Data Breach
-
By Farrukh Mushtaq
Farrukh Mushtaq
See author profileFarrukh Mushtaq, a digital marketer at PureSquare, possesses a keen interest in cybersecurity and enjoys writing about it. With several years of experience in the digital marketing industry, he brings expertise and passion to his work.
-
4 March 2025
-
14 mins read
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care suffered a massive ransomware attack in 2023, which compromised the personal and medical data of approximately 3 million individuals, putting victims at serious risk of identity theft and fraud.
Following the attack, the company faced multiple lawsuits and agreed to a $16 million settlement. In this blog, we will explore the details of what happened and how you can protect yourself from similar risks.
What Happened in the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Data Breach?
In March 2023, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care was targeted in a ransomware attack. Over the span of nearly three weeks, from March 28 to April 17, 2023, cybercriminals gained unauthorized access to the organization's systems and deployed ransomware.
How Did the Attack Happen?
- Hackers broke into the system and stole a huge amount of private information.
- They installed ransomware, which locked files and disrupted services.
- The stolen data included:
- Names
- Contact details
- Dates of birth
- Social Security numbers
- Medical records (diagnoses, treatments)
- Financial information
By the time Harvard Pilgrim discovered the breach on April 17, 2023, the damage was already done.
Discover if Your Most Critical Identifiers Have Been Exposed on the Dark Web
Receive timely alerts and actionable insights with PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring.
Delayed Notifications & Lawsuits
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care sent initial notifications regarding the data breach on May 24, 2023. However, some individuals were unaware of the incident until June 2024, more than a year later.
- Several lawsuits were filed against Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and its parent company (Point32Health), accusing them of failing to protect customer data adequately and seeking compensation for the alleged negligence.
The $16 Million Settlement
After extensive legal battles, Harvard Pilgrim Health agreed to a $16 million settlement, though they denied any wrongdoing. Affected people can receive:
- Two years of complimentary credit monitoring.
- Up to $2,500 for documented expenses related to the breach.
- A $150 cash payment for those who opt not to file specific reimbursement claims.
- Up to $35,000 for significant losses due to identity theft or fraud with proper proof.
- Compensation of $30 per hour (for up to 7 hours) for time spent dealing with the repercussions of the breach.
What Are the Risks of Exposed Data?
When your personal and medical data is exposed, you’re at risk for several serious consequences, including:
Identity Theft & Fraud
Hackers can use your Social Security number, name, and birthdate to:
- Open credit cards in your name
- Take out fraudulent loans
- File false tax returns
Medical Identity Theft
Attackers can use stolen medical records to:
- Commit insurance fraud (filing fake claims in your name)
- Get medical treatment under your identity, potentially corrupting your medical history
- Sell fake prescriptions using your health data
Financial Risks
Your banking details and insurance information can be misused for fraudulent transactions, unauthorized purchases, and medical billing scams.
Targeted Phishing & Scams
Cybercriminals can use stolen contact details to send highly convincing scam emails or calls, tricking victims into revealing even more sensitive information.
Long-Term Data Exposure
Even if no fraud occurs immediately, your stolen data could be sold on the dark web, meaning you could be targeted months or even years later.stolen data could be sold on the dark web, meaning you could be targeted months or even years later.
How to Protect Yourself from Future Data Breaches?
If your information was compromised in this breach or any other, here’s how to stay protected:
Monitor Your Financial Accounts
- Check your bank statements and credit reports regularly for unusual activity.
- Set up transaction alerts with your bank to catch suspicious activity early.
Freeze or Lock Your Credit
If you suspect fraud, freeze your credit with major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) to prevent unauthorized loans or credit cards in your name.
Watch Out for Phishing Attacks
- Ignore unsolicited calls, emails, or messages asking for personal details.
- Verify contacts before responding to requests that seem urgent.
Use Strong Passwords & Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
- Change your passwords immediately for any accounts linked to Harvard Pilgrim Health Care.
- Enable 2FA wherever possible to add an extra layer of security.
Enable PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring
Use PurePrivacy's Dark Web Monitoring feature to track leaked data and receive real-time alerts if your information is found on the dark web. Here's how:
- Install PurePrivacy on your device or update your existing app.
- Log into the Members Area for access.
- Go to Dark Web Monitoring from the main menu.
- Select Add Assets to Monitor.
- Add your email, phone number, or other sensitive details.
- Verify via the code sent to your registered number.
- Take recommended actions if your data is found in a breach.
- Mark breaches as resolved after taking corrective measures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
How do I know if my data was affected?
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care sent letters to affected people. If you didn’t get one but were a member, contact their support or check their website. You can also use PureVPN’s Dark Web Monitoring to see if your data has been leaked.
-
What should I do if my Social Security number was stolen?
Freeze your credit with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to stop fraud. Keep an eye on your bank accounts and report any suspicious activity.
-
How can hackers misuse my medical information?
They can file fake insurance claims, get medical treatment in your name, or buy prescription drugs illegally, which could mess up your medical history.
Wrapping Up!
The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care data breach reminds you always to protect your personal information. If you were affected, act fast to protect yourself. And even if you weren’t, staying prepared is essential. Keep an eye on your accounts, watch out for scams, and use PureVPN’s Dark Web Monitoring to stay one step ahead of cybercriminals!
