What Happened?

On June 19, 2020, a data set containing both law enforcement sensitive and confidential records was published to the internet without authorization. This exposure resulted from the #BlueLeaks event, impacting a vendor and its customer base. Records maintained by the Austin Regional Intelligence Center (ARIC) were included in this event.

How You May Be Affected?

Records maintained by ARIC may have been made publicly available. These may include records containing personally identifiable information, financial information, and other confidential data.

What Can You Do?

Spot the warning signs of identity theft

Visit IdentityTheft.gov to learn how to set up protections:

Be aware of phishing scams

Phishing is when a fraudster impersonates a business or someone you trust in order to get your private information. Never click on links you don't trust and don't give out your personal information. Legitimate organizations never ask for your information through texts, pop-up messages, or email. Scammers may call and pretend to be from the government or a business to try to get you to give them sensitive information. If a caller asks for your information, call back using a number you know to be legitimate.

Change your passwords

Use complex passwords of 10-12 characters, combining letters, numbers, and special characters. Don't use something that is easily guessable for someone who knows you or has information about you. Don't repeat passwords for several accounts. For more information on how to choose a strong password, review the National Cyber Awareness System - Security Tips for Choosing and Protecting Passwords.

Get up to speed on computer security

Review and check up on your practices for safe, secure and responsible online activity. The Federal Trade Commission lists helpful steps you can take to make sure your computer is as safe as possible. For additional information on computer security, including information about firewalls, anti-virus software, and identifying security threats, review tips and the latest cybersecurity alerts and bulletins from the US-CERT’s National Cyber Awareness System.

If you think your identity has been stolen

If you believe your information has been misused, there are several steps you should take.

  • If you are concerned that you are experiencing identity theft, visit identitytheft.gov. This site explains steps you can take to recover your identity.
  • If you are concerned about your child's identity being stolen, the Federal Trade Commission has information and resources to know what to look for and how to get help.
  • You can also file a claim with the FBI.

Learn how to keep your information safe from exploitation

You can find information about the measures you can take to ensure the safety of your personal information at the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) at http://www.ncsc.gov.

Tips for practicing safe online behavior every day

Practicing safer online behavior helps you protect yourself from identity theft, fraud, and other online crimes and malicious activity. Learn what you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your workplace through tips and free resources from Stop.Think.Connect™, a national cybersecurity awareness campaign led by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance.