Attempted Extortion Event at Express Scripts in October 2008

To the WHOI Community:

We would like to address an issue that has arisen with Express Scripts, the pharmacy benefit manager who provides prescription drug coverage under our BCBS plans.  The issue is under control, and to our knowledge has not affected any WHOI members, however it is important to HR to ensure everyone is aware of what happened and how it is being managed.

Some of you may be aware of the attempted extortion event that occurred at Express Scripts in October, which included a threat to expose personal information of its members.  The extortion letter exposed personal information of 75 Express Scripts members.  You should know that one of these members was a Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA member and that person has been notified. We would like to assure you that no personal information of WHOI employees was involved in the breach.

Immediately after this occurred, Express Scripts notified the FBI and an investigation is currently in progress.  Members whose information was contained in the letters were notified.  At this time, there is no indication that the information has been misused, but certainly they recognize the concern it has caused.  For each person this affected, they are providing 2 years of free credit monitoring services and have also launched a website for members to obtain more information and help protect themselves against the possibility of identity theft.  This website is www.esisupports.com.  

Additionally, both Express Scripts and BCBS are committed to protecting the privacy and security of their members' information.  Express Scripts deploys several security systems designed to protect this type of information and BCBS is continuing to work closely with Express Scripts to ensure BCBS members' information is protected. 

Should you have any additional questions, please contact our new Benefits Manager, Denise Cabral in Human Resources (508-289-2217).  Thank you.