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In May 2006, a laptop computer and hard drive containing sensitive data was stolen from a Department of Veterans Affairs employee’s home.  The equipment was recovered and the FBI concluded that no veterans’ personal information was accessed or compromised.  Even before the equipment was recovered, VA undertook numerous actions to ensure the safety and security of veterans’ information.

Since the incident, all VA employees have received training in the proper handling of sensitive information and laptop computers throughout the department have had reliable data encryption programs installed.  VA Secretary Jim Nicholson is committed to making the department the gold standard for all of government in the area of information security.  “VA remains unwavering in its resolve to become the leader in protecting personal information, training and educating our employees in best practices, and establishing a culture that always puts the safekeeping of veterans’ personal information first,” Nicholson said.