Break-in at Whitehorse Victim Services office under inverstigation

Tuesday, 19 March 2024 11:53

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee

Confidential files and other items are believed to have been accessed and individuals who have obtained services or may have been referenced in victims’ files through Victim Services may be affected.

The Whitehorse RCMP is investigating the break-in at the Whitehorse Victim Services office.
On March 16, 2024 Whitehorse RCMP received a report that a break and enter occurred sometime between the evening of March 15 and the morning of March 16, 2024 at the Whitehorse Victim Services office.

According to a media release, confidential files and other items are believed to have been accessed and individuals who have obtained services or may have been referenced in victims’ files through Victim Services may be affected. While it is still unclear the extent to which confidential information may have been compromised, it is believed that files that may have been accessed often include individuals' names, contact information and birthdates, as well as information about legal proceedings. Some such files contain additional personal information, as do some cell phones that were stolen. The release said.

The stolen cell phones have been disabled and the Department of Justice will review security protocols and other measures to strengthen the security of information held in Victim Services offices to protect those who rely on being able to safely and discreetly access supports suited to their unique needs.

Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee said the government of Yukon deeply regrets the serious concerns this crime will cause for members of the community. Steps are being taking to ensure the safety clients and the government is actively cooperating with the RCMP’s criminal investigation to determine who is responsible and bring them to justice, she said.

The Victim Services office in Whitehorse will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, March 18-19. This will support Victim Services staff in being able to complete an inventory of records and determine whether any specific individuals were particularly affected.

Individuals who may wish to discuss concerns about their rights under the Access to Information and Privacy Act you can contact the office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner with questions at info@yukonombudsman.ca or to make a complaint at intake@yukonombudsman.ca

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