52 Computers Missing in Illinois

According to an audit by the state of Illinois, 52 computers are currently missing from a State agency, some of which may contain sensitive information.

The Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, which regulates banking, insurance and licensed professions in Illinois, was found to be missing 35 laptops and 17 desktops. It is unclear what information was held on these missing computers. The Department believes the missing computers were transferred to the Department of Central Management Services, but as yet no record of that transfer has been found.

The audit criticizes both the Agency and the Department for not adequately planning, co-ordinating or verifying the transfer of equipment. It is recommended that both the Department and the Agency perform a detailed inventory of computer equipment in an effort to reconcile any missing items. As of yet, these lost devices may or may not lead to a data breach incident. I would also criticize the Agency for not having records that indicate what data was held on the missing computers - an important factor to determine if a breach has occurred or not.

Via SJ-R, Chicago Tribune