North Cottage Program Data Breach Affects 6,650 Clients, Exposing SSNs

On May 16, 2024, the North Cottage Program, a mental health care provider located in Norton, Massachusetts, experienced a significant data breach when an unauthorized party gained access to the company's network environment.

This incident potentially exposed sensitive personal information of approximately 6,650 individuals in Massachusetts.

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The forensic investigation, which concluded on August 12, 2024, revealed that the unauthorized party may have acquired a range of personal data including social security numbers and private health information.

Upon discovering the breach, North Cottage Program took immediate action by shutting off all access to its network. The company engaged a specialized third-party forensic incident response firm to secure the network and investigate the extent of the unauthorized activity.

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As part of its response, North Cottage Program is reviewing its technical safeguards and considering enhancements to prevent future incidents.

Additionally, the company has arranged for affected individuals to receive complimentary identity monitoring services through Identity Defense for 12 months. These services include credit monitoring, real-time authentication alerts, high-risk transaction monitoring, and identity theft insurance.

If you have been impacted by this data breach, it is crucial to take proactive steps to protect your personal information. Here are some recommended actions:

1. Enroll in Identity Defense: Take advantage of the free identity monitoring services offered by North Cottage Program. Use the unique activation code provided in your notification letter to enroll before the deadline of November 18, 2024.
2. Monitor Your Credit Reports: Regularly check your credit reports for any unauthorized or suspicious activity. You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from each of the three nationwide credit reporting agencies at AnnualCreditReport.com.
3. Consider a Security Freeze: Placing a security freeze on your credit report can prevent new credit accounts from being opened in your name without your consent. Contact each of the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—to request a freeze.
4. Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye on your financial accounts and report any unusual activity immediately. Consider setting up fraud alerts with the credit bureaus.

For more details about the breach, you can refer to the official notification on the Massachusetts Attorney General's website.