Reading Cooperative Bank recently experienced a significant data breach. On January 31, 2025, the bank discovered unauthorized access to its systems, which compromised sensitive consumer information. The breach affected a total of 24,041 individuals across the United States, with the majority, 20,532, residing in Massachusetts. Additionally, 89 individuals in Maine were impacted.
The breach exposed a wide range of personal information, including:
The exact method of the breach and the identity of the perpetrators have not been disclosed. However, the exposure of such sensitive information suggests a severe security lapse that could have serious implications for those affected.
For more detailed information, you can view the official disclosure on the Maine Attorney General's website, the Massachusetts Attorney General's website, and the Vermont Attorney General's website.
In response to the breach, Reading Cooperative Bank has taken immediate steps to address the situation and mitigate potential harm to its customers. The bank has notified affected individuals through written communication, sent on February 24, 2025, detailing the nature of the breach and the specific information that was compromised.
While the bank has not publicly outlined specific resources or support for those affected, it is crucial for impacted individuals to take proactive measures. These include monitoring financial accounts for suspicious activity, placing fraud alerts on credit reports, and considering identity theft protection services. Given the severity of the breach, these actions can help safeguard personal information from further misuse.