First Circuit continues to wrestle with data security breach
'While the impacted information varies based on the individual and their relationship with the Circuit, the following information may have been accessed as a result of this incident: name; Social Security number; taxpayer identification number; date of birth; driver’s license information; and state identification number'
The First Judicial Circuit’s investigation of its October 2 “information technology security event” is ongoing and the circuit is “committed to providing information about the incident, our response, and steps for potentially impacted individuals to follow for protection against the possibility of identity theft or fraud,” according to Trial Court Administrator Kasey Watson.
“The Circuit takes this incident very seriously and is using this opportunity to further strengthen our policies, practices, and technology to protect against future attacks,” Watson said in a statement issued last week.
Watson said upon detecting suspicious activity on its network, the circuit responded and temporarily disconnected computer systems to mitigate risk to sensitive information. Circuit administration began investigating the cyber incident, including coordinating with law enforcement authorities, and utilizing Mandiant, a cybersecurity firm, to assist the circuit in forensic investigation and remediation efforts.
“While the impacted information varies based on the individual and their relationship with the Circuit, the following information may have been accessed as a result of this incident: name; Social Security number; taxpayer identification number; date of birth; driver’s license information; and state identification number,” Watson said. “In addition, for some individuals, certain types of health and insurance information may also have been accessed.”
The clerks of the court in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, and Walton counties maintain the official records of the court in a separate system. As a result, based on the investigation to date, the clerks’ records and data are not impacted by this incident, Watson said.
She said in an abundance of caution, “individuals may wish to take steps to protect themselves against the possibility of identity theft and fraud.” The circuit is notifying impacted entities and individuals through various communication channels, including through a media press release, mailed letters, and/or emails.
“Potentially affected individuals are encouraged to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft by reviewing personal accounts and credit history for unusual activity and reporting any suspicious activity promptly,” Watson said. “The Circuit has established a dedicated website, www.firstjudicialcircuit.org/NoticeofDataIncident, which provides additional resources for individuals.”
