California International Bank Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation
Was your Social Security number or bank account info caught in the latest California International Bank data breach? Act now — every day you wait increases your risk of identity theft. Find out how to protect yourself and whether you can pursue a claim for compensation below.
What Happened?
California International Bank, N.A., a community-focused bank headquartered in Westminster, California, discovered on September 12, 2024 that an unauthorized party had infiltrated a single employee’s email account. A forensic investigation determined the attacker had access for roughly 24 hours, from September 11–12, 2024.
After months of analysis aided by external cybersecurity experts, the bank concluded on August 29, 2025 that emails in that mailbox contained sensitive customer information. Mandatory filings were submitted to the California and Massachusetts Attorneys General on September 19, 2025.
Information Exposed
- Names & Addresses
- Social Security Numbers (SSNs)
- Dates of Birth
- Government-issued IDs
- Financial account details
- Medical and other personal data
Why This Breach Matters
With both SSNs and financial account numbers leaked, victims face a double threat: fraudulent credit applications and direct bank-account takeovers. Criminals can now:
- Open new credit lines in your name
- File fake tax returns for refunds
- Access or drain existing bank accounts
- Combine data with other breaches for more convincing scams
Bank’s Response
California International Bank secured the compromised mailbox and hired cybersecurity specialists to contain and investigate the intrusion. Impacted individuals are receiving 24 months of Experian IdentityWorks credit monitoring, identity-restoration support, and up to $1 million in identity-theft insurance.
Steps You Can Take Right Now
- Enroll in the free Experian IdentityWorks program provided in your notice letter.
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion).
- Order and review your free annual credit reports at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Monitor bank and credit-card statements for unfamiliar charges.
- Report any suspicious activity to your financial institution and file a police report if necessary.
Can You File a Lawsuit?
Under state and federal laws, companies that fail to safeguard consumer data can be held liable for resulting damages. Early investigations indicate California International Bank customers may have claims for:
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses (e.g., credit monitoring, account fees)
- Time lost resolving fraud or identity theft
- Potential statutory damages under state privacy statutes
If you received a breach notification, you may qualify to participate in a data-breach lawsuit seeking monetary relief and stronger security commitments from the bank.
Download the Official Breach Notice
Download Official Breach Notice (PDF)Frequently Asked Questions
What did the California International Bank data breach expose?
The breach exposed Social Security numbers, financial account details, names, addresses, dates of birth, government IDs, and in some cases medical information.
How many people were affected by the California International Bank breach?
Mandatory filings list at least four Massachusetts residents, but the final total may be higher once all notices are delivered. The bank has not released an exact nationwide figure.
Has California International Bank offered free credit monitoring?
Yes. Impacted customers received enrollment instructions for a complimentary Experian IdentityWorks plan that includes credit monitoring, identity restoration, and up to $1 million in identity-theft insurance.
Can I sue California International Bank over the data breach?
Potentially. Consumers whose data was compromised may be entitled to compensation for financial losses and the time spent mitigating fraud. Speaking with a data-breach attorney can clarify your eligibility.
What should I do if I notice fraudulent activity related to the breach?
Immediately contact your bank, place a fraud alert or credit freeze, report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov, and file a police report if required in your state.
How long will the free credit monitoring from California International Bank last?
The Experian IdentityWorks service offered by the bank is available for 24 months from the date of enrollment.
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