CentroMed Data Breach Affects 400,000 Individuals

What Happened?

In a significant security incident, CentroMed, also known as El Centro Del Barrio, experienced a data breach that compromised sensitive information of approximately 400,000 individuals. This breach was officially reported to the Texas Attorney General's office and made public on May 20, 2024.

Information Exposed

The types of consumer information exposed in the breach include:

• Name of individual
• Address
• Social Security Number Information
• Financial Information (e.g., account number, credit or debit card number)
• Medical Information
• Health Insurance Information
• Date of Birth

El Centro Del Barrio's Response

Following the discovery of the breach, El Centro Del Barrio took immediate steps to mitigate the impact on affected individuals and to prevent future occurrences. The organization has notified all potentially impacted parties through various means, including publication in print media, postings on their website, emails, and broadcasts on Texas-wide media. They are also likely working with cybersecurity experts to enhance their security measures and ensure the protection of their clients' data.

Steps to Take if You Are Affected

If you believe you might be affected by this data breach, it is crucial to act swiftly to protect your personal information. Here are some recommended steps:

1. Monitor your financial accounts: Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit card accounts for any unauthorized transactions. Immediately report any suspicious activity to your financial institution.
2. Place a fraud alert: Contact one of the major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, or Equifax) to request a fraud alert on your credit report. This makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name.
3. Consider a credit freeze: A more secure option than a fraud alert, a credit freeze prevents creditors from accessing your credit report entirely. It’s free to place and lift a freeze, but it must be done separately at each credit bureau.
4. Review your medical and insurance statements: Look for any discrepancies in your medical records and insurance claims. Report any incorrect information to your healthcare provider and insurance company.
5. Stay informed: Visit the El Centro Del Barrio website for updates and additional advice. You can also check the official disclosure on the Texas Attorney General's website.

About El Centro Del Barrio

El Centro Del Barrio, operating as CentroMed, is a healthcare organization based in San Antonio and New Braunfels, Texas. They offer a wide range of medical services including dental, pediatrics, and OB/GYN.