Community Health Center of Buffalo Data Breach Exposes Social Security Numbers

Community Health Center of Buffalo disclosed a data breach involving patient information.

The breach involved unauthorized access to the health center's computer network by an unknown actor, according to the company's notification. The unauthorized access took place over two days, on April 20, 2020, and April 21, 2020. During that period, certain files were accessed and/or acquired without the health center's authorization.

The types of information that may have been involved in the breach include both personally identifiable information and protected health information. The personally identifiable information includes names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and driver's license numbers.

The breach was reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on June 19, 2026. Community Health Center of Buffalo also posted a notice about the security incident on its website. According to the company's notification, the health center first detected suspicious network activity on April 21, 2020.

Community Health Center of Buffalo's response

Community Health Center of Buffalo is providing written notice to individuals whose information was potentially impacted by the breach. Those notification letters include an offer of complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services. Given the sensitive nature of the information potentially exposed, including Social Security numbers and detailed medical records, affected individuals may want to consider enrolling in these services promptly.

The health center also encouraged individuals to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft by reviewing account statements and paying attention to any unusual activity. The company advised that suspicious activity should be reported promptly to an insurance company, health care provider or government agency.

Individuals with questions can contact the health center's dedicated assistance line at 844-507-8582. The line is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, excluding U.S. holidays. Individuals may also write to the health center at 34 Benwood Ave., Buffalo, New York 14214.