Massive Data Breach Exposes 61,000 SNAP Users in Texas: Are You Affected?
In a concerning turn of events, the personal information of more than 61,000 Texans, primarily recipients of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, has been compromised in a major security breach. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) confirmed the breach, which occurred between June 2021 and December 2024. The breach was discovered on November 21, 2024, prompting swift action from the agency.
What Information Was Exposed?
The breach revealed a significant amount of sensitive data belonging to SNAP beneficiaries. This includes:
- Full names and home addresses
- Phone numbers and email addresses
- Dates of birth and Social Security numbers
- Medicaid and Medicare details
- Employment records and financial information
Such exposure places the affected individuals at heightened risk for identity theft and financial fraud.
What Is HHSC Doing About It?
Once the unauthorized access was discovered, HHSC acted promptly by terminating the employees involved. The incident has been referred to the Texas Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General for further investigation, with criminal charges being a possibility. The agency is also reinforcing security measures to prevent future breaches.
How Does This Affect SNAP Recipients?
The breach is a significant blow to many Texans who rely on SNAP benefits for essential food assistance. With personal information exposed, recipients now face potential risks of fraud and theft.
To mitigate the damage, HHSC is offering two years of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services. These include:
- Up to $1 million in identity theft insurance
- Social Security number and dark web monitoring
- Credit monitoring through Experian
What Should Affected Texans Do?
HHSC has already begun notifying individuals impacted by the breach via mail. If you’re a SNAP recipient, here’s how you can protect yourself:
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check your Lone Star Card transactions using YourTexasBenefits.com or the mobile app.
- Report Fraud: If you spot any unauthorized activity, contact 2-1-1, select your language, and press option 3. Also, inform local law enforcement and replace your benefits card at your nearest office.
- Use Free Credit Monitoring Services: Enroll in HHSC’s credit monitoring service by calling 866-362-1773 with the engagement number B138648.
Notifications are expected to reach all affected individuals by January 20, 2025.
Larger Implications for Security
This incident isn’t the first internal security issue for HHSC. Earlier in 2024, an employee was terminated for similar violations. The breach underscores the need for improved safeguards to protect the personal data of vulnerable populations.
For SNAP recipients and their families, staying vigilant and proactive is key in the wake of this breach.
