On Feb. 5, 2015, Colorado State University learned of a very sophisticated external cyber-attack on Anthem’s internal computer system. The attackers gained unauthorized access to member information, including Social Security Number, date of birth, and home address.
While Anthem has stressed that there is no evidence that medical records were compromised, the information that was accessed is sufficient for identity theft and other types of fraud.
Know that credit card information and banking information is not shared by CSU with Anthem. This is a serious issue and all CSU employees are urged to use best practices in updating their online passwords and other security measures on a regular basis.
Anthem is actively investigating the nature and scope of the attack, and will be communicating directly by postal mail with those members whose information has been affected. Credit monitoring and identity protection services will be offered for no charge.
Anthem will provide continuous updates on their website at www.anthemfacts.com/faq or you may call 1-877-263-7995 for additional information. We strongly encourage you to take advantage of whatever support and recommendations that Anthem provides via postal mail.
Colorado State University takes threats to our community very seriously. Any time a breach of personal information is publicized, there is the risk of identity theft. Please be cautious about replying to any email about this issue, since preying on fears surrounding large-scale crisis is a favorite tactic of email attackers.
As a general practice, it is good to be aware that you can request a free copy of your credit report once a year. This is a free service under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, as described at http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports. Tracking your credit report will help you be alert to unauthorized requests for credit in your name, which may be a signal of attempted identity theft.
You can follow the link below to read Anthem’s message to its members. If you have any questions about this issue, contact Human Resources at (970) 491-MyHR (6947) or Anthem’s dedicated line at 1-877-263-7995.
Quick Links
Anthem CEO Letter: www.AnthemFacts.com
Anthem FAQ: www.anthemfacts.com/faq
Free Credit Report Information: www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0155-free-credit-reports
