"Hacker" gains access to Kansas Health Policy Authority data

A consultant hired by the state to try and break into the computers at the Kansas Health Policy Authority had no luck using a password cracker.

However, he did much better by setting up an e-mail account, impersonating a state computer technician and sending messages to 30 employees asking for their passwords.

Fourteen gave them to him, no questions asked.

State officials say while the Health Policy Authority does a good job training new employees on computer security, they need to do ongoing training to keep people vigilant in the future.

Identity Theft: How to NOT be a victim

Identity theft is a crime, but that doesn't deter people from trying to take on your identity for financial gain.

At work and at home, secure important documents that contain your personal data. Do not carry your Social Security card or any cards with PIN numbers on them. The U.S. Department of Treasury also recommends shredding documents with personal information on them.

And, that's just the beginning. Protect yourself from this crime by learning identity theft prevention guidelines. Check them out.


Post a comment

(Requires free registration.)

Username:
Password: (Forgotten your password?)

Comment:

Advertisement

Keep an eye on Topeka's weather with the 49 ABC News Sky Cam.

On the air

KTKA 49 Contest Rules

Latest storm news, via Twitter

Online chats

49 Sports Challenge

It's time for the 2009 49 Sports Challenge! Click here to see the challenges 49 Sports Anchor Nic Hoch faces, or to challenge him yourself!

Swine Flu

Follow what's happening with the swine flu here.

49 News Kidcasts

Watch future TV stars, 6 to 12 years old, give the day's records on 49 Storm Team Weather here.

Main Street Live

KTKA 49 ABC is coming to your hometown. This Summer, starting June 10th, catch Main Street Live. Every Wednesday, we'll broadcast live from a city in Northeast Kansas, highlighting that community. Visit our Main Street Live homepage to find out when we might be coming to your town. You can send us photos and info about your town as well.

Register to Win

Register to win Worlds of Fun tickets.

A Day Away

Gather up the family and let "A Day Away" be your guide to investigating the nooks and crannies of the Sunflower State.

America's Next Top Model

Click here for eligibility requirements. Click here for the application.


TV Schedule

Voices

Latest blog entries

Severe weather and the 4th of July

From Weather Watch

This holiday weekend, much like Memorial Day weekend, is always filled with outdoor activities, barbeques and storms.
Le Tour

From The Hub

Can Lance win?

Interested in writing a blog? Send us a few sample entries! Let us know what you're interested in writing about, the experience you have with your topic, and anything else you think we'll find useful to know.

Latest blog comments:

Want to comment on the news?

Now you can - register for a free account and post comments to stories, blogs, podcasts and more, only on 49abcnews.com. Go »

Poll

Should ambulances charge more for people who weigh more than 350 pounds?

See the results without voting »