Are your establishment’s digital defenses strong enough to withstand a cyberattack? With Landmark Admin’s recent data breach making headlines, it’s a question you can’t ignore. Keep reading to learn more.
Nearly A Million Affected Users
Many life insurance and annuity firms have partnered with Landmark Admin for digital administrative support. The service streamlines many operations like new business processing and claims management, but it requires access to client information.
Unfortunately, Landmark Admin’s IT systems suffered a targeted ransomware attack last May 2024. Their cybersecurity crew quickly shut down the affected structures and blocked remote access, but not fast enough. The incident already exposed the details of 806,519 people.
As the law requires, a representative reported the incident to the Maine Office of the Attorney General. The company also brought in third-party specialists to help investigate.
Possible Identity Theft?
The company shared, “The forensic inquiry determined that data was exfiltrated and encrypted from Landmark’s system. The unauthorized activity occurred between May 13 and June 17, 2024.”
All affected individuals received a notification explaining that hackers may have accessed the following sensitive information:
- First name and last name
- Date of birth
- Addresses
- Social Security numbers
- Tax identification numbers
- Driver’s license numbers
- State-issued identification cards
- Passport numbers
- Health insurance policy numbers
- Medical history
- Life and annuity policy details
The company stressed that the amount of data accessed varied per client.
Steps To Recovery
Landmark Admin is now focused on resolving the aftermath.
All victims receive free access to sophisticated identity theft protection and information monitoring from IDX. This includes 12 months of CyberScan, credit monitoring, and a $1,000,000 insurance reimbursement. Policy funds can be used to recover lost wages and damages, acquire new documentation, and hire legal counsel when necessary.
IDX has been in the industry for 20 years. Many Fortune 500 companies and even the US federal government use its services.
Staying Vigilant
Were you part of the affected group? Criminals who have your SSN could try to open new financial accounts, apply for loans, and even get jobs using your information. Any crime they commit with this number may also end up on your criminal record.
Even if you’re safe for now, it never hurts to take extra precautions:
- Always read updates: Reputable third-party service providers give notifications when incidents like this happen. They often include clear instructions on what to do next.
- Check financial statements: Regularly check your credit card and bank statements for unusual activity. Report anything you don’t recognize to your bank or card issuer immediately.
- Update passwords: Make them strong and unique.
- Avoid suspicious messages: Phishing cyberattack incidents have steadily increased over the years. Never interact with links or emails when they look odd or too good to be true.
By keeping these things in mind, you can avoid potential disaster.
