University of Houston College of Optometry

The covered entity (CE), University of Houston College of Optometry, reported that it was the victim of a ransomware attack affecting the protected health information (PHI) of 18,500 individuals. The PHI involved included names, dates of birth, addresses, Social Security numbers, drivers’ license numbers, claims information, diagnoses, and other treatment information. The CE notified HHS, affected individuals, the media, and provided substitute notice. In response to the breach the CE implemented additional physical and technical safeguards and retrained its employees on the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules. OCR provided the CE with technical assistance regarding the HIPAA Security Rule.