Porth Unrein Goldblatt, PC has informed clients about a data security incident that may have compromised personal information. The firm discovered the unauthorized activity on June 3, 2024, after noticing several tax returns filed without proper authorization on behalf of clients. Following this discovery, the company took immediate action to secure its systems and launched an investigation with the help of cybersecurity experts. While no evidence of unauthorized access to their systems was found, the investigation revealed that a compromised employee account allowed an unauthorized party to access client data stored in a third-party document repository.
As a result of a detailed review of the affected data, the firm confirmed that certain clients’ personal information, including names and Social Security numbers, may have been exposed. However, the breach did not involve any bank account or financial information. Porth Unrein Goldblatt acted quickly to ensure that affected clients were notified and that resources were made available to help protect their personal information. While there was no indication that the exposed information had been misused, the firm took the necessary steps to provide transparency and safeguard its clients.
In response to the incident, the firm has bolstered its security measures, including working with a forensic investigation firm and implementing additional monitoring tools. They have also provided clients with complimentary access to credit monitoring services through Cyberscout, a TransUnion company, which will alert clients to any changes to their credit reports over the next 12 months. The firm is offering these services to help protect against identity theft and fraud, and to give clients the tools needed to monitor their credit for suspicious activity.
Clients are encouraged to take further protective measures, such as enrolling in the free credit monitoring service, which requires them to sign up within 90 days of the notification. The firm also recommends creating an Identity Protection PIN with the IRS to prevent tax-related identity theft. Porth Unrein Goldblatt has established a helpline for clients to seek assistance and has expressed their sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused by the breach, assuring clients that they are taking the necessary steps to improve data security moving forward.
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