Oulu police launch investigation into data protection breach in North Ostrobothnia

The Oulu police are set to initiate an active preliminary investigation in the coming weeks into a data protection breach that occurred in the North Ostrobothnia welfare area in November. According to Chief Inspector Janne Koskela, there are several suspects related to the case, and at least 50 crime reports will be filed. Koskela has not yet disclosed the specific charges under investigation.

“The active investigation will commence after the holidays when the individuals involved are more accessible. Once the formal preliminary investigation starts, we will provide further information,” he stated. However, some preliminary inquiry actions have already been undertaken in the main case.

In November, the Pohde organization disclosed that approximately 50 of its employees had improperly accessed a single patient’s medical records without any valid basis related to treatment or their job responsibilities. The unauthorized handling of medical information occurred in the spring and summer of 2023. The incident came to light following a complaint from the patient, who was a staff member.

Pohde reported the case to the police and filed a data breach notification with the Data Protection Ombudsman. The Oulu police are also conducting a separate investigation at Pohde’s request, suspecting a former employee of violating confidentiality and disclosing information that intrudes on personal privacy.