What is an example of a HIPAA security incident?

The best example of a HIPAA security incident is the unauthorized access of electronic protected health information (ePHI) or a malware attack targeting patient data. HIPAA’s Security Rule is specifically designed to protect ePHI, which is any health information that is created, received, stored, or transmitted electronically. A security incident in this context is characterized by unauthorized access to this sensitive data or threats that could compromise its security, such as malware that aims to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized control over health information technology.

This aligns directly with the intent of HIPAA to safeguard patient information from breaches and unauthorized access. The incident reflects a clear violation of the standards set forth in the HIPAA Security Rule, as it involves electronic records and highlights the importance of implementing security measures to protect that data from both external and internal threats.

In contrast, while other choices involve potential issues with patient privacy or security, they may not directly fall under the specific incidents defined by HIPAA’s regulations regarding electronic information. For instance, theft of physical documents pertains more to HIPAA's Privacy Rule than its Security Rule, and a data breach involving social media accounts does not directly implicate HIPAA unless it relates to the handling of ePHI. Lastly, an employee