Youth and Shelter Services Data Breach Class Action Investigation

At Console & Associates, our data breach lawyers are closely examining the recent Youth and Shelter Services data breach. This data breach was disclosed following a cyber security incident at Youth and Shelter Services, which resulted in unauthorized access to sensitive personal information, potentially exposing confidential data to malicious actors.

What Happened?

A recent report from the Maine Attorney General's office reveals that the Youth and Shelter Services data breach occurred due to a malware attack that was discovered in September 2023 that compromised the organization's computer network. Youth and Shelter Services secured their systems and launched an investigation confirming unauthorized access to the network occurred between September 3, 2023, and September 4, 2023. The data breach exposed sensitive personal information, including:

• Names and dates of birth
• Social Security numbers
• Driver's license numbers
• Financial account information
• Medical and health insurance details
• Billing and claims information
• Passport numbers
• Other government-issued identification numbers

Data breach letters were sent out by Youth and Shelter Services on December 27, 2024, informing affected individuals about the nature of the incident and compromised data.

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 Youth and Shelter Services data breach
   1. Be wary of unexpected emails or messages claiming to be from Youth and Shelter Services
   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.

Youth and Shelter Services Overview

Founded in 1976, Youth and Shelter Services (YSS) is a nonprofit organization serving the Iowa community through comprehensive support services. Operating from its headquarters in Ames, Iowa, Youth and Shelter Services has developed into a multifaceted organization that touches thousands of lives annually through its diverse range of programs and services.

With approximately 300 dedicated employees and an annual revenue of $19 million, Youth and Shelter Services maintains a presence across the state through its network of facilities and outreach programs. The organization's service portfolio includes:

• Specialized mental health counseling programs tailored for youth and families
• Emergency shelter services providing immediate safety and support
• Comprehensive addiction recovery programs
• Innovative transitional living solutions for young adults
• Evidence-based prevention education initiatives
• 24/7 crisis intervention services
• Wraparound family support programs
• Specialized housing support services

Youth and Shelter Services Data Breach Victims Have Rights - Don’t Wait to Act

How do you know that you were affected by the Youth and Shelter Services 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.