Data Breaches: An Increasing Threat to Personal Information
If you think your personal information might have been affected by a data breach and found on the Dark Web, you might be eligible to join a data breach lawsuit. Use the form on this page to check your eligibility.
Data breaches aren’t a new concern, but the incidence of cyberattacks has skyrocketed in recent years. Hackers are increasingly targeting companies and organizations that handle sensitive personal and financial data, resulting in billions of compromised records.
In addition to this surge in data breaches, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has noted a corresponding rise in identity theft complaints. Consumers have reported staggering losses, largely linked to data breaches, emphasizing the risks associated with compromised information.
Several companies have surfaced in Dark Web monitoring reports due to security incidents. The following organizations may have experienced breaches:
- Paylogix
- APDerm
- Heart South Cardiovascular Group, PC
- Advanced Dental
- Medical Center, LLP
- Summit College
- Heywood Hospital
- Spindletop Center
If you’ve interacted with any of these companies, there’s a chance your data might be at risk.
Do You Qualify?
If your personal information was compromised in one of these or other data breaches—especially if your personally identifiable information (PII) or personal health information (PHI) is spotted on the Dark Web—you may have legal avenues to explore, including participating in a data breach lawsuit.
Complete the form on this page for a complimentary case review. A legal professional will assess your submission to determine your eligibility for compensation connected to the data breach.
Fill out the form on this page for more details.
This content is provided by the law firm Migliaccio & Rathod LLP, located in Washington, D.C.; contact number: 202-470-3520; website: classlawdc.com.
Understanding Why Companies Fail to Prevent Data Breaches
Organizations that collect sensitive personal or health data hold the responsibility of safeguarding it. However, many businesses, including healthcare providers, fall short in protecting this vital information, leaving it exposed to potential breaches.
Common causes behind data breaches can often be linked to:
Malicious Attacks: Cybercriminals frequently target companies that collect significant amounts of PII and PHI. Their tactics can include ransomware, credential theft, and other methods aimed at breaching secure systems.
Human Error: In many instances, data breaches occur due to insufficient employee training or security protocols. Without proper education, staff may inadvertently expose sensitive data through phishing emails, social engineering, or misdirected communications.
System Vulnerabilities: Outdated software, inadequate security measures, and poor monitoring make it easier for hackers to exploit weaknesses in a company’s systems. Organizations neglecting to implement robust cybersecurity strategies are more likely to face breaches.
A concerning statistic from IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report reveals that it takes companies an average of 194 days to recognize a breach and another 64 days to contain it. During this delay, compromised information can easily appear on the Dark Web without the knowledge of affected individuals.
This reality has prompted some individuals to pursue legal action against businesses that are deemed to have failed in adequately protecting PII or PHI.
Trading Stolen Personal Information on the Dark Web
The Dark Web represents a secluded segment of the internet that isn’t indexed by standard search engines. While it serves some lawful purposes—such as enabling access to information by journalists or individuals facing censorship—it’s primarily recognized for hosting illegal marketplaces, where stolen data can be traded.
Criminals utilize these marketplaces to buy and sell various forms of compromised personal and health information, which may include:
- Names
- Addresses
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
- Social Security numbers
- Credit and debit card numbers
- Bank account credentials
- Login information for payment apps
- Medical and patient records
- Health insurance details
- Passport numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
Due to the nature of transactions on the Dark Web, where anonymity is crucial for both buyers and sellers, stolen PII and PHI can circulate for years. Once information is out, it becomes increasingly challenging for individuals to safeguard themselves from identity theft and fraud.
Understanding Dark Web Data Exposure and Legal Options
The rise in data breaches has left millions exposed, with some personally identifiable information (PII) and personal health information (PHI) appearing on the Dark Web, resulting in an elevated risk for identity theft and fraud.
This situation has led to some consumers filing lawsuits against companies that allegedly neglected to meet reasonable standards for information safeguarding. If you suspect your data is being sold on the Dark Web, legal action might be an avenue worth exploring.
Do You Qualify?
If your personal or health information was compromised in a data breach that took place in or after 2024, and you have suffered harm as a result, you may have the right to join a data breach lawsuit. The harm could manifest as financial loss, concerns about identity theft, or time spent addressing the breach.
To check your eligibility, please complete the form on this page.
Fill out the form on this page to find out if you qualify for a free case evaluation.
