Ahtna, Inc. Data Breach: SSNs & Names Exposed

Ahtna, Inc., an Alaska-based public relations and communications company, recently experienced a significant data breach that affected at least 1,843 individuals in Texas and potentially others across the United States. The breach was allegedly the result of a ransomware attack carried out by the Qilin group, which claimed responsibility and posted sample data on its dark web portal on Aug. 13, 2025.

The incident occurred between April 20, 2025, and June 1, 2025, when an unauthorized third party gained access to certain systems within Ahtna’s network. The breach was first detected on July 28, 2025, at which point Ahtna contained the threat and launched an investigation with the help of outside cybersecurity professionals. Their review determined that files containing sensitive information were accessed and exfiltrated by the attackers. The number of impacted individuals includes at least 1,843 residents in Texas. However, this is an ongoing investigation and the number of affected individuals is subject to change.

The exposed data may include names, dates of birth, addresses, Social Security and tax ID numbers, and potentially other forms of personally identifiable information (PII). The breadth of information involved increases the risk for identity theft, financial fraud and other forms of misuse.

Ahtna disclosed the breach to the California, Texas, Massachusetts and New Hampshire Attorney Generals' offices on Nov. 21, 2025. The company has notified impacted individuals by mail. The attack’s severity is underscored by the involvement of the Qilin ransomware group, which is known for targeting organizations and leaking stolen data if ransom demands are not met.

Ahtna's response

After discovering the breach, Ahtna promptly contained its network and began a comprehensive investigation to determine the scope of the incident and identify affected individuals. To help protect affected individuals, Ahtna is offering 12 months of complimentary credit monitoring and identity restoration services through Experian.

If you receive notification from Ahtna or your provider about this breach, you may want to:

• Sign up for the free Experian identity theft protection services, offered by Ahtna.
• Monitor your credit reports and financial accounts for any unusual activity.
• Be alert for phishing emails or phone calls that may use your exposed information.
• Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with major credit bureaus.