OrthopedicsNY Data Breach Affects Employees, Offers Aid

On April 20, 2024, OrthopedicsNY, LLP, a medical practice based in New York, experienced a significant data breach that potentially exposed sensitive information of both current and former employees.

This breach was publicly disclosed on November 6, 2024, and affected individuals in multiple states, including Texas and Massachusetts. In Texas alone, 465 individuals were impacted, while Massachusetts reported 2 affected individuals.

The breach involved unauthorized access to a variety of personal information. The exposed data includes names, addresses, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, government-issued ID numbers, financial information such as account numbers and credit or debit card numbers, medical information, health insurance details, and dates of birth. The exact method by which the data was stolen has not been disclosed, but the breach's scope suggests a sophisticated attack on OrthopedicsNY's systems.

OrthopedicsNY's Response

In response to this breach, OrthopedicsNY has taken several steps to mitigate the impact and prevent future incidents. The company has engaged external cybersecurity experts to enhance their security measures and safeguard their systems. They have also implemented additional security protocols and reviewed their policies and procedures related to data protection.

To assist those affected, OrthopedicsNY is offering complimentary access to Single Bureau Credit Monitoring services, which include alerts for any changes to credit files for 24 months. They are also providing proactive fraud assistance through TransUnion to help individuals manage any potential identity theft issues.

Recommended Actions for Affected Individuals

If you believe you may be affected by this data breach, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your personal information. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Enroll in Credit Monitoring: Utilize the free credit monitoring services provided by OrthopedicsNY. This will help you stay informed about any changes to your credit report.
2. Place a Security Freeze: Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports to prevent unauthorized access. This can be done by contacting the major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
3. Monitor Financial Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity to your financial institution immediately.
4. Be Vigilant with Communications: Be cautious of phishing attempts or suspicious emails that may try to exploit your situation. Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown sources.
5. File a Police Report: If you suspect identity theft, file a report with your local law enforcement and obtain a copy for your records.

For more detailed information on how to protect yourself, you can refer to the Massachusetts Attorney General's disclosure and the Texas Attorney General's data security breach report.