What is the first step when a breach affects fewer than 500 individuals?

When a breach affects fewer than 500 individuals, the first appropriate step is to report theft to local law enforcement. This is crucial because it initiates the investigative process, which can help in resolving the breach and recovering any stolen information. In addition, reporting to law enforcement can aid in determining the scope of the breach and preventing further unauthorized access to sensitive patient information.

While notifying the Attorney General and local media might be necessary later in the process for more significant breaches or if certain thresholds are met, those actions are not immediate priorities for smaller breaches affecting fewer than 500 individuals. Informing all patients via phone is also not the first step; typically, organizations will send written notifications to affected individuals as part of their compliance with breach notification laws, usually after local law enforcement has been contacted and the organization has assessed the situation.