Key Highlights
- Conduent data breach could be largest in U.S. history, affecting over 10 million people.
- Breach timeline spans from October 21, 2024, to January 13, 2025.
- Affected individuals may have their personal information exposed, including addresses and Social Security numbers.
- Free credit monitoring offered for one year for affected individuals.
The Largest Data Breach in U.S. History?
Conduent Business Services is under the spotlight for a data breach that could potentially be the largest in American history, according to the Texas Attorney General’s office. This isn’t just another run-of-the-mill security incident; we’re talking about millions of individuals whose personal information may have been compromised.
Scope and Timeline
The breach was discovered on January 13, 2025, but investigators found that hackers had access to sensitive data from October 21, 2024, until the discovery date. That’s a span of just under three months, which is more than enough time for unauthorized entities to wreak havoc. The affected states include Georgia, South Carolina, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Mexico.
Impact on Individuals
The breached data includes addresses and Social Security numbers, but there are reports that medical data and health insurance information were also exposed. This is a serious matter because these kinds of details can be used for identity theft or financial fraud. The notification letters sent to those affected do not specify which company hired Conduent’s services, making it difficult for individuals to determine the original source of their compromised data.
Response and Support
To mitigate some of the damage, Conduent is offering free credit monitoring for one year. However, people must sign up by April 30, 2026, using a specific phone number provided in their letters. Experts recommend freezing your credit with all three major bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
So, you might think this is new, but data breaches have become increasingly common.
Companies need to take proactive measures or face the consequences. It’s a wake-up call for businesses that rely on sensitive personal information to ensure they have robust cybersecurity protocols in place. After all, protecting customer data isn’t just about avoiding lawsuits; it’s about maintaining trust and staying in business.