Data Breach Warning for Maryland Residents

In February 2024, Change Healthcare, the nation’s largest electronic data clearinghouse, suffered a major data breach that potentially affected one-third of all Americans. Change Healthcare, part of UnitedHealth Group, handles key healthcare administrative functions and connects tens of thousands of healthcare providers and insurers.

Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown has announced measures to assist affected Maryland residents, including free credit monitoring and identity theft protection for two years. While the exact number of people affected is unknown, confidential information was reportedly leaked onto the dark web. Due to the wide-reaching impact of the breach, all Maryland residents are advised to consider their data at risk and register for protection services through Change Healthcare’s consumer support page or by contacting IDX at 1-888-846-4705. For further assistance, call 1-866-262-5342.

Residents should be alert for suspicious medical bills, collection calls or errors in medical documents that could indicate identity theft. They are warned not to give out personal information without verifying the identity of callers or email senders. Alternatives such as credit freezes are also recommended and are available from major credit reporting agencies Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

This incident underscores the importance of vigilantly protecting personal information and demonstrates the ongoing efforts of Attorney General Brown and other state attorneys general to assist and educate the public in protecting their privacy.