Port of Seattle Data Breach Class Action Investigation

At Console & Associates, our data breach lawyers are closely examining the recent Port of Seattle data breach. This data breach was disclosed following a cyber security incident at Port of Seattle, which potentially exposed sensitive personal identifiable information including names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, government ID numbers, and medical information.

What Happened?

A recent website notice from the Port of Seattle confirms that the organization experienced an IT outage on August 24, 2024, which has now been identified as a significant data security incident. In response to this outage, the Port took protective measures by isolating critical systems, shutting down vulnerable networks, notifying federal law enforcement agencies, and initiating a comprehensive investigation with assistance from specialized cybersecurity experts.

The investigation revealed that unauthorized actors had successfully penetrated certain systems and exfiltrated personal data. The compromised information primarily pertained to employees, contractors, and individuals in parking databases maintained by the Port of Seattle.

The types of information exposed in this breach include:

• First and last names
• Dates of birth
• Social Security numbers
• Driver's license numbers
• Other government identification card numbers
• Medical information

Data breach notification letters were sent out by Port of Seattle on April 3, 2025, informing affected individuals about the nature of the incident and specifically which data elements belonging to them were compromised.

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 Port of Seattle data breach
   1. Be wary of unexpected emails or messages claiming to be from Port of Seattle
   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.

Port of Seattle Overview

The Port of Seattle functions as a municipal corporation established in 1911 with a dual mandate of managing Seattle's maritime facilities and operating the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac). Based in Seattle, Washington, this public agency maintains jurisdiction over an extensive infrastructure network that serves as a critical nexus for regional and international commerce.

The organization's governance structure consists of five elected commissioners who serve four-year terms and establish policies for port operations. With approximately 2,150 employees, the Port oversees various facilities including container shipping terminals, cruise ship berths, recreational marinas, and commercial real estate properties throughout the Seattle metropolitan area.

The Port of Seattle serves as a vital transportation hub connecting the Pacific Northwest to global markets, particularly those in Asia and along the Pacific Rim. Its operations facilitate the movement of goods, passengers, and services that form an integral component of Washington state's economic infrastructure. The Port's funding mechanism relies on a combination of operating revenues, property taxes, and bond issuances to finance its capital projects and ongoing activities.

Port of Seattle Data Breach Victims Have Rights - Don’t Wait to Act

How do you know that you were affected by the Port of Seattle 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.