Pensacola News Journal reports that four laptops have been stolen, which contain personal information and Social Security numbers on almost 10,000 Gulf Coast Medical Center patients.

The laptops were stolen in two separate incidents. Three were stolen from a car in Texas in November, and another was taken from a car in Tallahasse in February. The latter laptop contained information for over 8,000 patients.

It is believed both thefts were random and, thus far, no identity thefts have ocurred. A spokesperson has indicated that all information was password-protected.

A crucial lesson is to be learned from these incidents: it’s not just about protecting your data, it’s also about being theft-smart. Both of these thefts were preventable if the laptops had not been left in the cars. Hauling around a laptop for lunch may seem like overkill, but it is a necessary step in protecting yourself and your company from data breaches.

For more tips, read our 10 steps to laptop security and theft deterrence best practices.

Tags: laptop theft, laptops in cars, laptop security, panama city, gulf coast medical center, data breach