Houston Housing Authority Data Breach Class Action

At Console & Associates, our data breach lawyers are closely examining the recent Houston Housing Authority data breach. This data breach was disclosed following a cyber security incident at Houston Housing Authority, which may have affected as many as 30,210 individuals in Texas, potentially exposing sensitive personal identifiable information.

What Happened?

A recent report from the Texas Attorney General's office states that the Houston Housing Authority data breach occurred due to a ransomware attack. The incident was initially discovered on September 22, 2024, when HHA learned that hackers had orchestrated an attack the previous day.

Although the housing authority initially believed they had successfully contained the breach, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security later contacted HHA officials to inform them that ransomware was still detected on one of their computer systems. The ransomware gang behind this attack has claimed to have extracted approximately 38GB of data, including confidential consumer information from Houston Housing Authority's systems.

The compromised information varies by individual but may include:

• Names
• Addresses
• Social Security numbers
• Driver's license numbers
• Financial account information
• Medical information
• Health insurance information
• Dates of birth

While the Houston Housing Authority has not confirmed whether they have begun distributing data breach notification letters, they are expected to send these notices soon, if they haven't already done so. The breach was initially announced in November 2024, with updated information filed with the Texas Attorney General on March 28, 2025.

Steps To Take If You Were Affected By A Data Breach

1. Monitor all accounts and credit reports closely
   1. Set up alerts for suspicious activity
   2. Review all financial statements thoroughly
   3. Request free credit reports and examine them for unauthorized entries
      
      
2. Consider freezing your credit
   1. Contact all three major credit bureaus to place a freeze
   2. Understand this prevents new accounts from being opened in your name
   3. Remember to temporarily lift the freeze when applying for legitimate credit
      
      
3. Look out for phishing attempts using information from the Houston Housing Authority data breach
   1. Be wary of unexpected emails or messages claiming to be from Houston Housing Authority
   2. Don't click on suspicious links or download unexpected attachments
   3. Verify all communications through official channels
      
      
4. Change passwords for affected accounts
   1. Create strong, unique passwords for each account
   2. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters
   3. Consider using a password manager for better security
      
      
5. Enable two-factor authentication where possible
   1. Add this extra layer of security to all important accounts
   2. Use authenticator apps rather than SMS when available
   3. Keep backup codes in a secure location

For more detailed guidance, explore our “Guide for Victims of a Data Breach” to better understand measures you can take to protect yourself after a data breach.

Houston Housing Authority Overview

The Houston Housing Authority (HHA) operates as a public housing agency established in 1938 with the mission of providing affordable housing solutions to low-income residents throughout Houston, Texas. As one of the largest housing authorities in the state, HHA manages a significant portfolio of housing resources to address the needs of economically disadvantaged residents.

The organization currently administers approximately 2,600 public housing units distributed across various locations in Houston. Additionally, Houston Housing Authority oversees roughly 18,900 Housing Choice Voucher units (formerly known as Section 8), which allow qualifying residents to secure housing in the private rental market with subsidy assistance.

HHA's operational structure includes approximately 157 employees who manage its various programs and services. The organization generates an estimated annual revenue of $36 million, primarily through federal funding, rental income, and various grants.

The scope of Houston Housing Authority’s impact extends to over 60,000 Houston residents who receive housing assistance and related services. Beyond providing physical housing, the authority administers programs aimed at promoting resident self-sufficiency, housing stability, and community development throughout Houston.

Houston Housing Authority Data Breach Victims Have Rights - Don’t Wait to Act

How do you know that you were affected by the Houston Housing Authority data breach? Usually victims receive a NOTICE OF DATA BREACH in the mail, but the impact of a breach can be felt long before notices are sent to those affected. This can be in the form of fraudulent financial activity and other forms of identity theft.

If you believe you were affected, we encourage you to reach out to our data breach law firm for legal assistance through a no-cost consultation about your situation. We will review your eligibility to file a data breach class action lawsuit and discuss your legal rights and any compensation that may be available to you.

Complete our confidential contact form below and a member of our legal team will be in touch.