Medical data leaked online in data breaches

Medical data often constitutes some of the most sensitive information involving an individual, so the effects can be devastating if this information is exposed. Cybercriminals are all too aware of this fact, and in the world of data misuse, highly sensitive information is often very profitable. Some cyberattacks result in medical data leaked online, with criminals using it as a powerful bargaining tool.

In the wake of medical data breaches, many victims may feel vulnerable and anxious, fearing that their private information might have fallen into the hands of cybercriminals. Nothing can make up for the distress of this difficult aftermath period but making a compensation claim can help to achieve some form of justice for the harm caused.

Your Lawyers, as leading data breach experts, want to make sure all data breach victims can access justice. Victims can contact us for free, no-obligation advice on a potential compensation claim.

Examples of medical data leaked online

Large-scale data theft appears to hit the health sector with alarming frequency. A recent example came in France, where nearly half a million people saw their medical data leaked online. Some cases involved highly sensitive information being exposed, such as medical treatment information, HIV statuses, and pregnancy test results. It is alleged that the information in question was all stored on the same software system, suggesting faults in the program may have caused the leak.

Last December, a UK cosmetic surgery chain experienced a ransomware attack which similarly saw medical data leaked online. Patients of The Hospital Group faced taunts from hackers, who were threatening to release their before and after photographs.

As an example of a major NHS data breach, 2017 brought the huge blow of WannaCry ransomware attack, which affected over a third of trusts in England. It was later revealed that the NHS had failed to follow cybersecurity recommendations before the attack took place. Though there was no evidence that patient information was then compromised, a more sophisticated attack could have caused significant data exposure.

How we can help data breach victims

Unfortunately, medical data exposure is often caused by the failings of healthcare organisations themselves. It may be that a cybersecurity deficiency or a user error has caused private information to be leaked, meaning that the healthcare organisation responsible may be liable to pay compensation.

We can help victims who have had their medical data leaked online to claim compensation, not only for the distress they have suffered, but also for any financial losses or expenses caused, where this applies.

Making your compensation claim

Your Lawyers, as a specialist firm of Data Leak Lawyers, have been representing clients in privacy matters since 2014. We have been involved in a number of notable medical data breach cases, including the 56 Dean Street Clinic breach, so we know just how difficult these breaches can be for the victims.

To receive free, no-obligation advice on your potential compensation claim, contact us today or register your details for a call-back. You could be entitled to thousands of pounds in compensation for the breach of your right to data protection.

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