Legal Aid Service Data Breach Exposes Sensitive PHI and PII

On or about Feb. 10, 2025, Legal Aid Service of Broward County experienced a data security incident involving unauthorized access to a single email account. The incident was discovered on Jan. 5, 2026.

Following this breach, a thorough investigation with external cybersecurity experts revealed that certain files containing sensitive personal information were accessed or acquired by an unauthorized party.

The compromised information includes a broad range of personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI). Specifically, the data exposed may include full names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, driver’s license or state identification numbers, other government identification numbers, bank account details, credit or debit card information, biometric data, medical information and health insurance policy information.

According to a disclosure filed with the Massachusetts Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, the breach affected at least two individuals in Massachusetts, though the total number of affected individuals nationwide has not been specified.

The organization has posted an official notice of data security incident on their website. They have also began notifying affected individuals by written mail.

Legal Aid Service of Broward County's response

To help protect those affected, Legal Aid Service of Broward County is offering complimentary identity monitoring services through Kroll. Impacted individuals are eligible for credit monitoring, fraud consultation and identity theft restoration services. These services are available for a specified period and are designed to help individuals detect and respond to any potential misuse of their information.

Those affected are encouraged to enroll in the identity monitoring services provided, place a fraud alert or security freeze on their credit files, and obtain free credit reports to monitor for suspicious activity.

The organization also recommends that individuals remain vigilant in reviewing financial and medical statements for irregularities.