MassArt Data Breach

Understanding the MassArt Data Breach

In a recent incident, the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) experienced a data breach that potentially exposed sensitive personal information. This breach is particularly concerning as it involves names, Social Security numbers, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses—types of data that can be used for identity theft and other fraudulent activities.

On February 16, 2024, an email was erroneously sent to MassArt Auction artists, requesting them to upload W-9 tax forms to facilitate consignment payments. Unfortunately, the link provided was incorrect, leading to a risk that unauthorized individuals could access the uploaded information.

Upon discovery, MassArt promptly deleted the incorrect link and secured the uploaded files, ensuring that the folder in question was no longer accessible. While the likelihood of information being accessed is low, MassArt has taken steps to address the situation and assist those potentially affected.

If you believe you may have been impacted by this breach, MassArt has offered a complimentary two-year membership to Experian IdentityWorksSM, a service designed to help detect and resolve identity theft. This offer includes:

• Experian credit report at signup
• Credit Monitoring
• Identity Restoration
• Experian IdentityWorks ExtendCARETM
• $1 Million Identity Theft Insurance

To enroll in Experian IdentityWorksSM, please do so by May 31, 2024. You can enroll through the provided Experian IdentityWorksSM website using your activation code. For assistance, contact Experian’s customer care team at 1-877-890-9332 and provide engagement number B117437.

Additionally, you have the option to place a security freeze on your credit reports at no charge. This can prevent credit reporting agencies from releasing information without your written authorization. To do so, contact each of the three major consumer reporting agencies:

• Equifax
• Experian
• TransUnion

MassArt values the trust of its community and has apologized for any inconvenience caused by this incident. They have also taken steps to prevent future occurrences. For further assistance or questions, you can reach out to Kathryn A. Calnan at kcalnan@massart.edu or call 617-879-7012.

For more information about MassArt, visit their official website.

The full notice to consumers is available on the Massachusetts Attorney General's website.

By taking the steps outlined above, you can help protect your personal information and mitigate potential damages from this data breach. Remember to stay vigilant and monitor your accounts for any unusual activity.