A shocking data breach has exposed the personal information of over 61,000 Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Texas. Between June 2021 and December 2024, employees at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) improperly accessed sensitive client data, including Social Security numbers, home addresses, financial information, and health records. Here’s what happened, who is affected, and what steps you need to take to protect yourself.
What Happened?
On November 21, 2024, HHSC discovered that some employees had gained unauthorized access to client data over a period of more than three years. The compromised information includes:
- Full names, addresses, and phone numbers.
- Social Security numbers and Medicare/Medicaid IDs.
- Financial details such as banking information.
- Health and insurance records.
How HHSC Is Responding
- Employees Terminated: The involved employees have been fired, and the case has been referred to the Office of Inspector General for investigation.
- Notifications Sent: HHSC is notifying affected individuals via first-class mail.
- Free Identity Protection: Two years of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection are being offered to those impacted.
What Should You Do If Affected?
HHSC is urging all SNAP recipients to take immediate action:
- Monitor Lone Star Card Activity: Regularly check transactions for unauthorized use on  the mobile app.
- Report Fraud: Call 2-1-1, select your language, and choose option 3 if you notice suspicious activity. Visit an HHSC office for card replacements.
- Review Financial Statements: Examine bank and healthcare accounts for inaccuracies, and report any unauthorized charges.
Steps HHSC Is Taking to Prevent Future Breaches
To avoid future incidents, HHSC is implementing:
- Enhanced internal security measures.
- Improved fraud detection systems and alerts.
Stay Updated
For further details, affected individuals are encouraged to review HHSC’s  contact the agency directly for assistance.
Final Thoughts
This breach serves as a wake-up call about the importance of data security and fraud prevention. If you or someone you know receives SNAP benefits in Texas, take immediate steps to secure your personal information and stay informed through official channels.
