Exela Technologies Data Breach Exposes Social Security Numbers

In early April 2024, Exela Technologies, Inc. experienced a significant data breach when certain information was posted online by a third party. This incident traces back to a cybersecurity attack Exela faced on June 19, 2022. At that time, Exela's forensic experts did not find evidence suggesting that personal data had been accessed or acquired. However, the recent online posting indicates otherwise.

Upon reviewing the data posted, Exela determined that the breach involved sensitive personal information, including names and Social Security numbers. The severity of this breach is underscored by the fact that the data was accessed and released by a third-party group responsible for the 2022 cybersecurity incident.

Information Exposed:

• Names
• Social Security numbers

Exela Technologies' Response

In response to the data breach, Exela Technologies, Inc. has taken several steps to ensure the security of their systems and protect affected individuals. The company has continued to work closely with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to address the situation. They have also implemented additional security measures to safeguard data within their global network.

Exela is offering a complimentary two-year membership of Experian’s® IdentityWorksSM to those affected. This service includes identity detection, resolution of identity theft, and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. Affected individuals can activate their membership by visiting the Experian IdentityWorks website and using the provided activation code: 5BMF5FWS8. For questions or alternative enrollment methods, contact Experian’s customer care team at (877) 890-9332 by September 30, 2024.

Steps for Affected Individuals

If you are affected by this data breach, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect yourself from potential fraud and identity theft:

1. Enroll in Experian IdentityWorks: Activate your complimentary membership by visiting the Experian IdentityWorks website and using the activation code 5BMF5FWS8 before September 30, 2024.
2. Monitor Financial Statements: Regularly review your payment card and personal account statements for any unauthorized charges.
3. Obtain Free Credit Reports: You can get a free credit report once every 12 months from each of the three nationwide credit reporting companies. Visit Annual Credit Report or call 1-877-322-8228.
4. Place Fraud Alerts or Credit Freezes: Consider placing a fraud alert or a security freeze on your credit reports to make it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Contact the credit bureaus:
1. Equifax: Equifax website, 1-800-685-1111
2. Experian: Experian website, 1-888-397-3742
3. TransUnion: TransUnion website, 1-800-916-8800

1. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect unauthorized charges or identity theft, report it to your payment card issuer and local law enforcement. File a police report and obtain a copy for your records.
2. Contact the Federal Trade Commission: For additional guidance, contact the FTC at 1-877-IDTHEFT (438-4338) or visit FTC Identity Theft.