The city of McKinney is taking steps to address a recent security breach, offering support to residents affected by the incident and providing resources to help protect their personal information.
According to the city, a breach occurred when an unknown third party gained unauthorized access to the city’s network environment on Oct. 31, 2024, potentially leaking resident information, including Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and bank information.
When The Data Leak Occurred
The city’s network security systems detected the unauthorized access on Nov. 14, 2024, and immediately took action to cut off any unauthorized activity. Upon discovering the issue, city officials brought in forensic consultants to investigate the source of the breach, notify law enforcement and secure the city’s systems to prevent future occurrences.
On Nov. 16, 2024, it was confirmed that files could have been exposed during the incident. The city’s investigation continued into December, and by Dec. 30, 2024, it was determined that certain personal or sensitive information may have been impacted.
“Privacy and security are our top priorities,” said the city of McKinney. “We deeply regret that this incident occurred and are committed to implementing even more stringent security protocols moving forward to prevent such breaches in the future.”
How To Know If You Were Affected
In response, the city sent individualized notices to those directly affected, outlining what specific data was potentially exposed. However, some residents who were impacted by the breach may not have been directly notified. For these individuals, McKinney has issued a substitute notice.
If you are a resident of McKinney and are concerned that your personal information may have been compromised, the city is offering assistance. You can call 833-799-4194 for more details on whether you may have been affected by the breach.
What Could Have Been Leaked
The types of sensitive information that could have been exposed include Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, credit card information, financial account details and certain medical or health insurance data.
How McKinney Is Helping Those Affected
Although the city has found no evidence of misuse of the exposed information, officials are providing notice as a precautionary measure, in compliance with legal requirements. To further support residents, the city is offering one year of free credit monitoring and identity theft protection through TransUnion and Cyberscout for anyone impacted by the breach.
For those impacted, the city has provided a link to enroll in the complimentary credit monitoring services. Residents can visit Cyberscout enrollment and follow the instructions to begin the enrollment process. A unique code will be provided to access the monitoring services:
- Adult Enrollment Code: CYOMCKYCYB012425
- Minor Enrollment Code: CTYMCKCYBFAM0124
Those who sign up for the credit monitoring services will need an internet connection and an email address to complete the enrollment. For further assistance or questions, residents can call 833-799-4194 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
What Residents Can Do To Stay Proactive
In addition to enrolling in credit monitoring services, McKinney encourages residents to take proactive steps in protecting their personal information. Keep an eye on health insurance statements, bank and credit card statements, and credit reports for any unfamiliar activity.
If anything suspicious is noticed, residents should contact their financial institutions, healthcare providers or relevant agencies immediately. If individuals suspect they are victims of identity theft, they should report it to local law enforcement.
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