Data Breach Summary
Western New York Energy has informed customers of a network security incident that may have exposed personal information. The company has taken extensive steps in response to the breach, emphasizing its commitment to data security and customer protection. Affected individuals are advice to remain vigilant by monitoring their accounts, reviewing medical and insurance statements, and reporting any suspicious activity.
On or about April 25, 2025, Western New York Energy detected unauthorized access to its network environment. Immediately after the incident was identified, the company engaged third-party forensic specialists to secure its systems and investigate the unauthorized activity.
According to the investigation, an unauthorized third party acquired certain pieces of individual personal information. Although there is no evidence of deliberate misuse of the data, the company has informed affected individuals that specific information may have been accessed, including first and last names.
In response to the incident, Western New York Energy acted swiftly by:
Engaging Cybersecurity Experts: Third-party forensic specialists were brought in to investigate and secure the network.
Securing the Network: Affected systems were wiped and rebuilt, and additional measures have been implemented to bolster the overall network security.
Reviewing Procedures: The company is updating its policies, procedures, and software related to data security to prevent future breaches.
Cooperating with Law Enforcement: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been notified, and Western New York Energy is fully cooperating with the investigation.
The data breach may have affected the following for various patients:
Names, addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers
Dates of birth, medical diagnoses, and treatment details
Health insurance data
Social Security numbers, in limited cases
Western New York Energy is offering all affected individuals 12 months of complimentary credit monitoring, credit reporting, and fraud support services through Cyberscout, a TransUnion company. Services include:
Real-time alerts when changes are detected in your credit file
Assistance from fraud specialists in the event of suspicious activity or identity theft
Access to your credit score and report
Enroll in the free credit monitoring and identity restoration service offered.
Check credit reports (available free once per year from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for unusual activity.
Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze if SSN or insurance data was involved.
Stay alert for suspicious communications or fraud attempts.
Utilize state-specific resources, such as the MD Attorney General’s identity theft resources, if applicable
Following the breach, Western New York Energy faces potential class-action lawsuits from patients alleging negligence in protecting personal data. Data breach lawsuits often claim companies failed to implement adequate security measures or delayed disclosure of breaches, thereby increasing victims’ risk of financial and identity theft damages.
Affected users may be entitled to compensation for costs related to identity monitoring, fraudulent transactions, lost time addressing the breach, and emotional distress.
If you were impacted by the Western New York Energy School data breach, you may have the right to seek compensation for the potential harm caused. Class Action U is dedicated to helping data breach victims connect with skilled attorneys who specialize in this area of law and can guide you through the legal process.
Individuals whose personal information was exposed may have valid grounds to join a class action lawsuit, allowing them to pursue restitution.
If your data was compromised, you could be entitled to compensation for:
Loss of privacy
Time spent resolving the breach
Out-of-pocket expenses
Emotional distress
By pursuing a class action lawsuit, you not only have the opportunity to recover damages but also help hold Western New York Energy accountable, potentially prompting them to strengthen their security measures. Reach out to Class Action U today to find out if you qualify for a data breach class action and learn more about the compensation you may be entitled to.
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