Blog Directory | Data Breach Class Actions

Newport Harbor Pathology Data Breach Class Action Investigation

Written by Console & Associates P.C. | Jan 21, 2025 2:53:25 PM

At Console & Associates, our data breach lawyers are closely examining the recent Newport Harbor Pathology data breach. This data breach was disclosed following a cyber security incident at Newport Harbor Pathology Medical Group, Inc. d/b/a Orange County Medical Group Pathology d/b/a Mission Laguna Pathology Medical Group d/b/a Barr Dermatopathology (“NHPMG”), which exposed sensitive personal identifiable information through unauthorized access to the company's IT network.

 

What Happened?

A recent report from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights states that the Newport Harbor Pathology data breach occurred due to a cybersecurity incident that allowed unauthorized access to parts of their IT network. The unauthorized party was able to view and copy information between October 8, 2024, and November 11, 2024. An investigation was launched that confirmed that the compromised information includes:

  • Names
  • Social Security numbers
  • Dates of birth
  • Addresses
  • Medical information
  • Driver's license numbers
  • Health insurance information

Data breach letters were sent out by Newport Harbor Pathology on December 6, 2024, and again on January 10, 2025, informing affected individuals about the nature of the incident and compromised data.

 

Steps To Take If You Were Affected By A Data Breach

  1. Monitor all accounts and credit reports closely
    1. Set up alerts for suspicious activity
    2. Review all financial statements thoroughly
    3. Request free credit reports and examine them for unauthorized entries

  2. Consider freezing your credit
    1. Contact all three major credit bureaus to place a freeze
    2. Understand this prevents new accounts from being opened in your name
    3. Remember to temporarily lift the freeze when applying for legitimate credit

  3. Look out for phishing attempts using information from the Newport Harbor Pathology data breach
    1. Be wary of unexpected emails or messages claiming to be from Newport Harbor Pathology
    2. Don't click on suspicious links or download unexpected attachments
    3. Verify all communications through official channels

  4. Change passwords for affected accounts
    1. Create strong, unique passwords for each account
    2. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters
    3. Consider using a password manager for better security

  5. Enable two-factor authentication where possible
    1. Add this extra layer of security to all important accounts
    2. Use authenticator apps rather than SMS when available
    3. Keep backup codes in a secure location

For more detailed guidance, explore our “Guide for Victims of a Data Breach” to better understand measures you can take to protect yourself after a data breach.

 

Newport Harbor Pathology Overview

Newport Harbor Pathology Medical Group operates under multiple business names including Orange County Medical Group Pathology, Mission Laguna Pathology Medical Group, and Barr Dermatopathology. Based in Newport Beach, California, the organization provides diagnostic services including anatomic pathology, clinical pathology, and cytopathology. Their services support hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers throughout the region. The practice maintains a staff of approximately 25 employees and generates annual revenue of $5 million through its diagnostic and consulting services.

 

Newport Harbor Pathology Data Breach Victims Have Rights - Don’t Wait to Act

How do you know that you were affected by the Newport Harbor Pathology data breach? Usually victims receive a NOTICE OF DATA BREACH in the mail, but the impact of a breach can be felt long before notices are sent to those affected. This can be in the form of fraudulent financial activity and other forms of identity theft.

If you believe you were affected, we encourage you to reach out to our data breach law firm for legal assistance through a no-cost consultation about your situation. We will review your eligibility to file a data breach class action lawsuit and discuss your legal rights and any compensation that may be available to you.

Complete our confidential contact form below and a member of our legal team will be in touch.