Anthem, the second-largest health insurer in the United States, was hacked, exposing tens of millions of customers' information. Photo courtesy of Anthem
INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 5 (UPI) -- Anthem Inc., the second-largest health insurer in the United States, said hackers breached databases containing personal information for about 80 million customers and employees. It is likely the largest disclosed data breach in U.S. corporate history.
Company officials said the stolen information includes birthdates, Social Security numbers, street addresses, medical identification numbers and employment information, including salary data. There is no evidence that credit card or medical history information was breached.
A company spokeswoman said "tens of millions" of people were likely impacted.
"Anthem was the target of a very sophisticated external cyberattack. Based on what we know now, there is no evidence that credit card or medical information were targeted or compromised," Anthem president and CEO Joseph Swedish said in a statement.
Anthem discovered the breach last week and contacted the FBI.
"Anthem's initial response in promptly notifying the FBI after observing suspicious network activity is a model for other companies and organizations facing similar circumstances. Speed matters when notifying law enforcement of an intrusion, as cyber-criminals can quickly destroy critical evidence needed to identify those responsible," FBI spokesman Joshua Campbell told USA Today.
The company set up a website, www.anthemfacts.com, for members to get information about the breach and a toll-free phone number, 877-263-7995, for current and former members.
Anthem, formerly known as Wellpoint, offers Blue Cross Blue Shield plans in New York, California and 12 other states.
