Department of Unemployment Assistance Data Breach

Understanding the MA Dept. of Unemployment Assistance Data Breach

Recently, the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance (DUA) experienced a data breach that may have exposed sensitive personal information. If you've received a notification about this incident, it's crucial to understand the scope of the breach and the steps you can take to protect your identity.

The breach involved unauthorized access to a range of personal data, including full names, Social Security Numbers, dates of birth, addresses, proof of current address, government-issued identification cards, Social Security cards, pay stubs, and W2 forms. This incident was disclosed to the Massachusetts Attorney General's office, as required by law.

DUA has taken steps to address the situation by instructing the unintended recipient of the data to delete and, if applicable, shred the document. To further assist those affected, DUA is offering credit monitoring services through Experian’s IdentityWorks for 24 months at no cost. It's important to enroll in these services by April 28, 2024, to take advantage of the protection offered.

What You Can Do:

1. Review the Notice: Familiarize yourself with the Notice to Consumers provided by DUA, which outlines your rights and the steps you can take.

1. Place a Security Freeze: Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports. This can prevent credit, loans, and services from being approved in your name without your consent. You can do this for free by contacting the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.

1. Enroll in Credit Monitoring: Activate your complimentary 24-month membership with Experian IdentityWorks by visiting their enrollment page and using the provided activation code. This service includes credit monitoring, internet surveillance, and identity restoration support.

1. Stay Vigilant: Regularly monitor your financial statements and credit reports for any unusual activity. If you detect any discrepancies, report them immediately to the relevant financial institution and credit bureau.

1. Contact DUA: If you have questions or need further assistance, reach out to the DUA at the provided contact number, (617) 626-5085.

Additional Resources:

• For information on how to report identity theft and get a recovery plan, visit the FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov website.
• Review the terms and conditions of the Experian IdentityWorks membership to understand the coverage and services provided.

By taking these steps, you can help safeguard your personal information and mitigate the potential impact of the data breach. Remember to act promptly and monitor your accounts closely in the coming months.