An Attack on Walgreens Affects 72 Thousand Individuals

  • By Steven
  • Oct 13, 2022

Walgreen attack

Walgreens is the second-largest pharmacy chain in the US and serves approximately 9 million people daily. So in comparison, 72 thousand doesn’t seem like that much. We are sure the affected consumers do not feel the same. Walgreens, alongside its pharmacy, has a series of walk-in clinics that vary depending on location. These clinics serve patients on a non-emergency basis, including families. We don’t know the exact number of affected patients or how many minors were involved.

How Did the Attack Occur?

The attack seems to have been a series of coordinated robberies. Burglars broke into multiple Walgreens locations across the US between May 26th and June 5th, 2022. Walgreens get robbed all the time; it would not be a place you would immediately think of breaking into, but it makes a lot of sense. Criminals could quickly sell whatever drugs they stole and make hundreds of dollars. They do not have to touch the register to make tons of money off the heist. 

What Information Was Viewed or Stolen?

The stolen data may have included addresses, names, birthdays, phone numbers, medication (name, quantities, strength, and description), prescriber name, prescription number, eligibility and vaccination information, and more. The burglars also took prescriptions that Walgreens had already filled, resulting in customer issues. Customers who had their prescriptions filled already were having problems getting them refilled, which was not affecting anything insurance related.

How Did Anthem Admit to the Breach?

Anthem Blue Cross admitted the breach on July 24th, 2022. The letters began, “We recently learned of a potential compromise of certain information about you located at a Walgreens store. We are contacting you to provide you with information about the incident and also with information about steps you can take to protect yourself.” The letter explains what information was affected and offers credit monitoring services free for a year. 

What Will Become of the Stolen Information?

While Walgreens has assured customers that social security numbers and payment information were not among the stolen data, there is still a lot that the thieves can do with the information. With the collected information, they can practically become you in the eyes of your insurance company. If they call and give your insurance information, they can find out more about your insurance or even use it themselves. This can result in more extreme payments that you’ll have to make.

What Should Affected Parties Do in the Aftermath of the Breach?

You can take many steps to help ensure your safety in the breach’s aftermath. Using the offered Experian’s® IdentityWorksSM is a constructive step to protect yourself and your loved ones. Make sure to keep watch on your mailbox and double-check that you did not receive a letter from Walgreens alerting you to the breach and your involvement. Keep your devices safe with malware protection software designed to make your life easier and keep you safe.

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