UPDATED:    January 31, 2025

Albany Gastroenterology Consultants Data Breach Lawsuit

Data Breach Summary

Albany Gastroenterology Consultants

Who Was Affected
Patients of Albany Gastro
Impacted Data
Dates of birth, Social Security numbers,, passport numbers, financial account information, medical and biometric data, health insurance details, government-issued identification numbers, credit and debit card numbers, including some expiration dates, security codes, and pins, usernames and passwords
Date of Breach
November 19, 2024
Have you been affected by Albany Gastroenterology Consultants's data breach?

Albany Gastroenterology Consultants (Albany Gastro) has disclosed a data breach compromising personal information, including Social Security numbers, following a cyberattack in November 2024. In response, the healthcare provider reported the incident to law enforcement and regulatory authorities, including the Massachusetts Attorney General.

Although there is no confirmed evidence of misuse, Albany Gastro is notifying affected individuals and implementing measures to mitigate potential risks. Those impacted are advised to stay alert for any suspicious activity related to their personal information. Recommended precautions include monitoring financial statements, updating passwords, and remaining vigilant against phishing attempts. For guidance on safeguarding your information after this incident, explore this resource on how to respond effectively to a data breach and minimize potential harm.

Details of the Albany Gastro Data Breach

According to the healthcare provider, the breach was discovered on November 19, 2024, after unusual activity disrupted access to a system. A forensic investigation revealed that an unauthorized actor accessed and acquired certain data on or around November 10, 2024. Albany Gastro completed its review of the impacted information on January 21, 2025, and began notifying affected individuals.

Although there is no evidence of misuse, the organization is offering complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection to those impacted. Albany Gastro has also enhanced its cybersecurity measures and reported the incident to the FBI.

What Information Was Involved?

The breached data may include personal information such as:

  • Names
  • Dates of birth
  • Social Security numbers
  • Passport numbers
  • Financial account information
  • Medical and biometric data
  • Health insurance details
  • Government-issued identification numbers
  • Credit and debit card numbers, including some expiration dates, security codes, and PINs
  • Usernames and passwords

How to Know if You Were Affected

If you received a data breach notification from Albany Gastro, your personal information may have been compromised. While most victims are officially informed via a ‘‘notice of data breach” in the mail, the consequences—such as fraudulent transactions and identity theft—can begin long before you receive the notice.

Potential Risks of the Albany Gastro Data Breach

A data breach like the one at Albany Gastro can have serious consequences for affected individuals. Even if there is no immediate evidence of misuse, cybercriminals can exploit stolen information in various ways. Here are some of the key risks:

1. Identity Theft

Personal information such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license details, and financial account numbers can be used to commit identity theft. Criminals may attempt to open credit accounts, take out loans, or even file fraudulent tax returns in your name.

2. Financial Fraud

If your banking details were exposed, you may be at risk of unauthorized withdrawals, fraudulent transactions, or new accounts being opened in your name. Hackers often sell financial data on the dark web, increasing the chances of your information being misused.

3. Targeted Phishing Scams

Cybercriminals often use stolen data to craft convincing phishing scams. You may receive emails, phone calls, or text messages that appear to be from Albany Gastro or another trusted entity. These scams may ask for additional personal details or prompt you to click on malicious links, further compromising your security.

4. Medical Identity Theft

If health insurance or medical-related information was leaked, criminals could use it to fraudulently obtain medical services, prescription drugs, or file fake insurance claims in your name. This type of fraud can be difficult to detect and may cause long-term financial and legal issues.

5. Credit Score Damage

Unauthorized activity, such as fraudulent credit card applications or unpaid loans taken out in your name, can significantly harm your credit score. This could affect your ability to secure loans, mortgages, or even employment opportunities in the future.

Steps to Take If You Were Affected by the Albany Gastro Data Breach

Stay Alert for Phishing Scams

Scammers may try to take advantage of the data breach by posing as Albany Gastro. Be wary of unexpected emails, texts, or phone calls requesting personal information. When in doubt, verify any communication directly with the company through official channels.

Monitor Your Credit and Financial Accounts

Keep a close eye on your bank statements, credit card activity, and credit reports for any unauthorized transactions. Set up account alerts to catch suspicious activity early. Take advantage of free credit reports and review them carefully for unfamiliar accounts or discrepancies.

Consider Freezing Your Credit

For added protection, request a credit freeze from all three major credit bureaus. This prevents anyone from opening new accounts in your name while still allowing you to use your existing credit. If you need to apply for credit, you can temporarily lift the freeze when necessary.

Class Action U, in partnership with KO Lawyers, is supporting individuals impacted by the Albany Gastro data breach. If your information was exposed in this breach, you may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit.

How Albany Gastro Class Action Lawsuits Help Victims Seek Compensation

Class action lawsuits allow individuals affected by large-scale data breaches like the Albany Gastro incident, to come together and pursue compensation collectively. These lawsuits can provide a more efficient and cost-effective way to hold companies accountable for failing to protect personal information. Learn how joining a class action lawsuit can potentially help you to seek compensation for:

  • Loss of privacy
  • Time spent addressing the breach
  • Out-of-pocket costs
  • Emotional distress

A successful case could also compel Albany Gastro, to improve its security measures and prevent future breaches. Reach out to Class Action U today to determine your eligibility for a data breach class action lawsuit and the compensation that may be available to you.

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