On May 14 and May 29, 2025, Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate experienced a significant data breach that potentially exposed sensitive personal information of its customers. The breach occurred due to sophisticated phishing attacks targeting two internal email accounts. Although no core systems were compromised, the unauthorized third parties gained access to potentially sensitive data.
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate’s Data Breach Investigation
The breach was detected after unauthorized third parties gained access to two email accounts within the company’s internal network. According to the company, the breach was a result of advanced phishing attacks — a form of cyberattack where attackers attempt to trick individuals into revealing personal information, like passwords or other sensitive data, via fraudulent emails or messages.
After discovering the breach, Patterson-Schwartz immediately secured the affected email accounts and initiated an investigation in collaboration with a cybersecurity firm. The company reassured customers that it was taking the matter very seriously and has taken steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, including enhancing its email security measures and implementing more stringent internal security protocols.
While the breach didn’t involve Patterson-Schwartz’s core systems, the information accessed through the email accounts may still have been highly sensitive. As a precautionary measure, the company is offering credit monitoring services to affected individuals and has put in place additional safeguards to prevent further cyberattacks.
Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate is continuing to work with cybersecurity experts to assess the full scope of the attack and to strengthen its security measures. The company is also reinforcing training for all employees to help recognize phishing attempts and avoid future breaches of a similar nature.
When Did This Breach Occur?
The data breach occurred on or about May 14 and May 29, 2025. These two dates mark the unauthorized access to the affected email accounts, which were discovered shortly thereafter.
What Information Was Breached?
The breach may have exposed the following types of personal information:
- Names
- Email addresses
- Phone numbers
- Mailing addresses
- Birth dates
- Bank account and credit card numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- Social Security numbers
Though Patterson-Schwartz has stated that there is no evidence of misuse of the personal information, affected individuals are being advised to take appropriate precautions, including enrolling in the credit monitoring services provided by the company.
What You Can Do
If you were affected by this breach, there are several steps you should take to protect yourself and your sensitive information:
- Be cautious of suspicious emails: Do not engage with emails from unknown sources or those that request personal information. Patterson-Schwartz has stated they will never ask for passwords or sensitive data via email, phone, or text.
- Monitor your financial accounts: Check your credit card, bank, and online accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions. If you spot any suspicious activity, report it to the relevant financial institution immediately.
- Take advantage of free credit monitoring: Patterson-Schwartz is offering free credit monitoring services, including Single Bureau Credit Reports, Scores, and Monitoring for 12 months. These services will alert you to changes in your credit file, helping you detect potential fraud early.
- Consider fraud assistance: As an additional measure, the company is providing proactive fraud assistance through Cyberscout, a TransUnion company. This service will support you in the event that you become a victim of fraud or need help dealing with related issues.
- Stay informed: Review any additional information provided by Patterson-Schwartz, including tips on how to further protect your information and how to enroll in the credit monitoring services.
