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Forum Communications Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation
Shamis & Gentile P.A., one of the nation's premier class action law firms specializing in data breach cases, is investigating the Forum Communications data breach.
If you were affected by the data breach, your sensitive personally identifiable information may have been exposed, and you may be eligible for compensation.
About Forum Communications
Forum Communications Company is a family-owned media and technology corporation based in Fargo, North Dakota. Founded in 1891, the company operates a wide range of media outlets across the Midwest, including newspapers, broadcast television stations, radio stations, print publications, and digital media platforms. Forum Communications employs approximately 321 people and has built a reputation for delivering local news and information to communities in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
In addition to traditional journalism, Forum Communications offers advertising and marketing services, digital engagement and analytics, printing services, and content production such as podcasting and video production. The company is currently led by CEO William C. Marcil and holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
The January 2025 Data Breach
On February 21, 2025, Forum Communications discovered that an unauthorized party had gained access to some of its computer systems. An investigation revealed that the unauthorized access occurred between January 14, 2025, and January 31, 2025. During this period, the unauthorized party acquired copies of certain files stored on Forum's network.
The breach potentially impacted approximately 28,830 individuals across the United States. Forum Communications notified affected consumers on March 19, 2025, through written notices.
The types of consumer information exposed in the breach include:
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Forum Communications has stated that they have no evidence suggesting the exposed information has been misused for identity theft or fraud. However, as a precaution, the company is offering affected individuals a complimentary one-year membership to Experian IdentityWorks Credit 3B, a service designed to help detect potential misuse of personal information and provide identity protection.
Your Rights and Next Steps
If you received a notification letter from Forum Communications, your personal information may have been compromised. It is essential to take proactive steps to protect yourself from potential identity theft or fraud:
- Enroll in Free Credit Monitoring: Forum Communications is offering affected individuals a complimentary one-year membership to Experian IdentityWorks Credit 3B. This service provides credit monitoring, identity restoration support, and up to $1 million in identity theft insurance. You can enroll by visiting https://www.experianidworks.com/3bcredit or by calling Experian at 877-288-8057. Use the activation code provided in your notification letter.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly review your bank statements, credit card statements, and credit reports for unusual activity. If you notice anything suspicious, contact your financial institution immediately.
- Consider a Fraud Alert or Credit Freeze: You have the right to place a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports. A fraud alert informs creditors of potential fraudulent activity, while a credit freeze restricts access to your credit reports, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. To place a fraud alert or credit freeze, contact the major credit reporting agencies.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect identity theft or fraud, promptly report it to law enforcement, your state's attorney general, and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- Join a Class Action Lawsuit: Lawyers are ready to help you understand your legal rights and options following this data breach. If your personal information was exposed, you might be eligible to join a class action lawsuit and seek compensation for potential damages.
You May Be Entitled to Compensation
If you were affected by the Forum Communications data breach, you might be eligible for compensation. Data breaches can lead to significant financial losses, emotional distress, and time spent resolving identity theft or fraud issues.
Lawyers are ready to help you determine if you qualify to join a data breach lawsuit. To find out if you are eligible, complete the below form. Once submitted, a legal professional will review your case and contact you regarding your options.
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