[Dataloss] MA: Data loss notification (fwd)

[lyger]

The following was sent to attrition.org anonymously.  The North Shore 
Emergency Action Coalition was set up to prepare for a potential bird flu 
epidemic amongst other emergency issues and is made up of Departments of 
Health for NE Massachusetts.


---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Sep 6, 2007 1:43 PM
Subject: Security Alert
To:

Dear Volunteers:

I have some unfortunate news to share with you regarding our volunteer database.

Our Computer Engineer has informed the Coalition that a flash drive,
possibly containing volunteer information he was transferring from a
work computer to a home back-up computer, has been lost.

The flash drive was not stolen.  It was misplaced and it is possible
that it was accidentally thrown away.  The volunteer information may
have been deleted from the flash drive before it was lost, but the
engineer cannot be certain that it was.

Although the risk of a problem from this situation is low, it does
still exist.  Therefore, we are notifying you so that you may take
action to protect your information.  Below are three links with
information on how to protect your identity in situations where
information has been lost or stolen. This process is free of charge.

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/alerts/infocompalrt.shtm

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/compromised.html

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/detect.html

The Coalition understands the vital relationship it has with its
volunteers, one that is based on mutual respect and trust. We deeply
regret this problem and are actively re-examining  security controls
so that this situation will not happen again.

We need you, your expertise, and your commitment. We are beginning a
new series of trainings and have reinforced our recruitment efforts.
It is our genuine hope that you will continue on this path with us in
spite of this recent occurrence.

Please e-mail me with any questions or concerns at <redacted>.
Your e-mails will be discussed by the Coalition and you will receive a
response.

My sincerest apologies.

Joanne Scott
North Shore-Cape Ann Emergency Preparedness Coalition Chair