Pioneer, a global balloon company based in Wichita, Kansas, reported a data breach to the Attorney General of Montana on September 27, 2024, following a cybersecurity incident. The breach was discovered on July 23, 2024, when an unauthorized third party accessed Pioneer’s systems. The company quickly launched an investigation to understand the scope of the incident and secure its systems. Through this investigation, Pioneer determined that sensitive personal information had been compromised, including names, Social Security numbers, and addresses.
After confirming that sensitive data had been accessed between July 23 and August 27, 2024, Pioneer began reviewing the affected information to identify the individuals impacted. While the type of exposed data varied depending on the individual, the breach notice included specific details of the data involved. Pioneer then initiated a process to notify the individuals whose information was impacted by sending them personalized data breach letters starting on September 27, 2024.
The notification letters provided detailed information on what data had been exposed for each affected individual and also offered 24 months of free credit monitoring services to help mitigate any risks associated with the breach. Pioneer’s breach notice also stated that it had no evidence of any misuse or attempted misuse of the compromised data. The company worked with external cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach and strengthen its security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Founded in 1917, Pioneer Blue Balloon, LLC operates internationally and is recognized for its wide range of balloon products and party supplies. Its brands include Qualatex, Pioneer Party Group, and Pioneer Line, offering latex balloons, custom print balloons, and various party accessories. With six locations across four continents, Pioneer serves a global customer base, and its headquarters in Wichita oversees the operations of these branches. The company continues to provide affected individuals with identity protection services while working to improve its cybersecurity protocols.
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