HIPPA secures your data that is held by a provider or health insurance firm. However, HIPAA rules do not apply if your information is shared with any organization or person not covered by HIPAA. For example, if you post your health condition information on a message board, social media, or open email -- it is not protected. NEVER post anything online that you do not want to be made public. With the plethora of social media sites and constantly changing the security setting updates, vigilance and caution is the key to prevention.