On February 13, 2025, Bell Ambulance became aware of unauthorized activity on its computer network. After discovering the breach, Bell Ambulance engaged third-party forensic specialists to investigate the incident. The investigation confirmed that an unauthorized individual accessed data within the company's network.
Bell Ambulance is currently conducting a thorough review to determine the full scope of the breach, including the exact number of individuals affected.
The cybercriminal group known as MEDUSA has claimed responsibility for the attack, identifying it as a ransomware incident. On March 2, 2025, MEDUSA posted on the dark web, announcing they had obtained approximately 219.50 GB of Bell Ambulance's data.
MEDUSA threatened to publish the stolen data within 7-8 days if their demands were not met. The group also provided sample screenshots of the stolen data on their dark web portal, accessible through the Tor network.
The types of consumer information exposed in this data breach include personally identifiable information (PII) such as first and last names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and financial account information. Additionally, protected health information (PHI), including medical information and health insurance details, may have also been compromised.
Bell Ambulance has established a dedicated assistance line for individuals who have questions or concerns about the breach. Affected individuals can call this assistance line at 1-800-939-4170, available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm ET (excluding holidays).
The company encourages everyone potentially affected to remain vigilant against identity theft and fraud. Bell Ambulance advises individuals to regularly review their credit reports, account statements, and explanation of benefits forms for any suspicious activity or errors. Under U.S. law, individuals are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus—TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. These reports can be ordered online at AnnualCreditReport.com or by calling 1-877-322-8228.
Bell Ambulance also recommends placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on credit files. This can help prevent unauthorized credit, loans, and services from being approved without consent.
Fraud alerts and credit freezes can be placed by contacting the three major credit bureaus:
Individuals can further educate themselves about identity theft, fraud alerts, credit freezes, and protective steps by contacting the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or their state Attorney General. The FTC can be reached at IdentityTheft.gov or by calling 1-877-ID-THEFT (1-877-438-4338).
Bell Ambulance has posted detailed information regarding this incident on their official website, accessible through their Data Security Incident Notice.
About Bell Ambulance
Bell Ambulance, Inc. is a private ambulance company based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and is the largest ambulance provider in the state. Founded in 1977 by Rick Zehetner, Bell Ambulance has grown significantly over the years. Today, the company maintains a fleet of 86 ambulances and employs over 750 professionals. Bell Ambulance responds to more than 120,000 service calls annually, providing both emergency and non-emergency medical transport services throughout Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine Counties, and Southeastern Wisconsin.
Bell Ambulance offers various medical transport services, including Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Life Support (ALS), and Critical Care Transport. The company is the largest provider of Critical Care Paramedic transport in Wisconsin and provides services for the Children's Wisconsin Critical Care Transport Team. Bell Ambulance is also a certified participant and contracted provider for the City of Milwaukee 911 EMS system.
The company operates from 11 modern stations across Milwaukee, Waukesha, and Racine counties, including Wisconsin's largest ambulance station located at Vel R. Phillips Avenue and Walnut Street in Milwaukee. Bell Ambulance emphasizes professional development, offering competitive wages, rapid advancement opportunities, and comprehensive employee benefits.