Gandara Mental Health Breach Impacts Over 17,543 in Massachusetts

On October 24, 2024, Gandara Mental Health Center reported a significant data breach to the Massachusetts Attorney General's office. This breach has potentially compromised sensitive personal information of approximately 17,543 individuals in the state.

The breach involved unauthorized access to a variety of sensitive data, including Social Security numbers and medical records. Such information is highly confidential and its exposure can lead to severe consequences for affected individuals, such as identity theft and financial fraud.

Information Exposed:

• Social Security numbers
• Medical records

Gandara Mental Health Center's Response

In response to this breach, Gandara Mental Health Center has taken steps to mitigate the potential impact on affected individuals. They have begun notifying those whose information may have been compromised, offering them complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services through Identity Defense. This includes 24 months of credit and identity monitoring, a $1,000,000 insurance reimbursement policy, and fully managed identity theft recovery services.

Additionally, Gandara has provided detailed instructions for individuals who wish to place a security freeze on their credit reports. This measure can help prevent unauthorized access to credit information. Affected individuals are encouraged to enroll in the offered services by visiting Identity Defense Enrollment before the deadline of January 22, 2025.

Steps for Affected Individuals

If you believe your information may have been compromised in this data breach, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect yourself. Here are some steps you should consider:

1. Enroll in Credit Monitoring: Take advantage of the complimentary credit monitoring services offered by Gandara Mental Health Center. Visit the Identity Defense Enrollment page to sign up before the deadline.
2. Place a Security Freeze: Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. This will prevent new credit accounts from being opened in your name without your authorization.
3. Monitor Financial Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity immediately.
4. Obtain Your Credit Report: You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies annually. Visit Annual Credit Report to request your reports and review them for accuracy.
5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for any communications from Gandara Mental Health Center regarding updates or further instructions related to the breach.

For further details on the data breach disclosure, you can access the official document on the Massachusetts Attorney General's website.