Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Data Breach

Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, an academic health institution and medical school of Texas Tech University, has confirmed that a large volume of patient data was exfiltrated in a September ransomware attack. The recent data breach at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center  has potentially exposed sensitive information of 533,874 individuals, including 44 Maine residents.

While the company has not found evidence of misuse, they are notifying affected individuals and taking steps to help mitigate potential risks. Individuals associated with Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center , are advised to remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to their personal information. Monitoring financial statements, changing passwords, and being cautious of phishing attempts are recommended steps to protect against potential misuse of compromised data. To learn more about how to protect yourself after such incidents, explore this resource on how to respond to a data breach incident and understand the steps you can take.

Details of the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Data Breach

In September 2024, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso (collectively “the HSCs”) detected unusual activity that disrupted multiple computer systems. Upon discovery, they immediately secured their network and launched a comprehensive investigation with cybersecurity experts. The investigation confirmed that unauthorized access led to the viewing or removal of certain files and folders stored on their systems.

The breach, which temporarily disrupted several systems and applications, occurred between September 17 and September 29, 2024, and was discovered on December 16, 2024. The HSCs are actively notifying affected individuals and are offering complimentary credit monitoring services to help safeguard their information from potential misuse.

What Information Was Involved?

The information potentially accessed in the breach includes:

• • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Social Security number
  • Driver’s license number or government-issued ID number
  • Financial account information
  • Health insurance details
  • Medical information, including medical record numbers, billing/claims data, and diagnosis and treatment information.

How to Know if You Were Affected

If you received a data breach notification from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 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.

Steps to Take If You Were Affected by the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Data Breach

Stay Alert for Phishing Scams

Scammers may try to take advantage of the data breach by posing as Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. 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 Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center data breach. If your information was exposed in this breach, you may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit.

How Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Class Action Lawsuits Help Victims Seek Compensation

Class action lawsuits allow individuals affected by large-scale data breaches like the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 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 Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, 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.