KAUFMAN COUNTY–Kaufman County discovered a security breach Oct. 20 affecting certain county systems, according to a Kaufman County press release. The county determined the breach began Oct. 17. The county has determined that some sensitive personal information was breached.
Only certain individuals were affected. Individuals can learn if they were impacted by visiting the county’s website at www.kaufmancounty.net and reviewing the Notice of Security Breach document. This document also contains security recommendations for affected individuals.
Sensitive personal information affected by the breach may include an individual’s first and last name in combination with some or all of the following information: address, date of birth, Social Security number, driver’s license number, other government identification number, health care information and/or health care billing information.
Kaufman County immediately contained the incident and implemented safeguards to improve data security in its infrastructure. The county confirmed that the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office was not impacted and emergency services remain fully operational. The county has notified appropriate agencies.
Kaufman County is now entering the next phase of its response, focused on protecting residents and employees and ensuring long-term data security, the press release said. The county is providing substitute notice to those individuals whose information may have been impacted by the incident. The notice will include details about the information involved and steps individuals can take to help safeguard their identity, including how to access free credit monitoring and identity protection services.
“As we move into the next phase of response and recovery, our focus remains on prevention and protection,” Kaufman County Judge Jakie Allen said. “We’ve strengthened our systems and remain vigilant to ensure the continued security of county information and services.”
At this time, the county says there is no evidence that any individual’s information has been misused. However, the county encourages individuals to be vigilant, to take appropriate security measures and safeguard their information. Credit monitoring services are being offered to those individuals impacted by the incident.
Affected individuals are encouraged to call toll free (833) 353-6092 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m - 9 p.m. Eastern Time.
Future notices and information will be posted on the Kaufman County website at www.kaufmancounty.net, the county stated.