Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation
Were you one of the 2,100+ clients whose Social Security numbers and financial details were exposed in the recent Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA (“HBAS”) cyber-attack? Fast action can help you avoid identity theft and pursue compensation. Find out how to protect yourself and whether you can file a claim today.
What Happened?
HBAS, a well-established Ohio accounting firm, detected suspicious activity in its computer network on July 2, 2025. A forensic investigation later confirmed that an unauthorized party gained access to files containing sensitive personal information. After reviewing the affected data, the firm began mailing breach notification letters on August 7, 2025.
Information Potentially Exposed
- Full name
- Social Security number
- Financial data (details not publicly specified)
Who Is HBAS?
Founded in 1967 and headquartered in Lewis Center, Ohio, Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA provides tax preparation, estate and trust services, retirement planning, and small-business consulting.
Your Complimentary Protection
HBAS is offering affected individuals 12 months of free credit monitoring and identity-theft services. Instructions for enrollment are included in the mailed notice.
Why Legal Action Matters
Even with monitoring, data breach victims often suffer long-term harm, including fraudulent tax returns and drained bank accounts. Filing a lawsuit can:
- Recover out-of-pocket losses and time spent resolving fraud
- Secure free, extended identity-theft protection
- Hold organizations accountable and improve future security
Next Steps for Affected Clients
- Enroll in the free credit monitoring offered by HBAS.
- Place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the major credit bureaus.
- Monitor bank and credit-card statements for unfamiliar activity.
- Consult an experienced data-breach attorney to evaluate your claim options.
Download Breach Notice (PDF) View Draft Complaint (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA data breach?
The firm detected unauthorized network activity on July 2, 2025, indicating hackers accessed files containing client data. Specific technical details have not been publicly released.
What personal information did Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA expose?
Names, Social Security numbers, and certain financial data were potentially compromised, varying by individual.
Is Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA offering free credit monitoring?
Yes. Impacted clients are eligible for 12 months of complimentary credit monitoring and identity-theft services.
Can I sue Harris, Burnett, Arend & Schmiesing CPA for the breach?
Victims may be able to file a lawsuit for damages such as fraud losses, time spent resolving identity theft, and emotional distress. An attorney can assess your eligibility.
How do I protect myself after the HBAS breach?
Activate the offered credit monitoring, place fraud alerts or freezes, regularly review financial statements, and consider legal counsel to pursue compensation.
Act Now
Data thieves move quickly—so should you. Contact a qualified data-breach attorney to discuss your legal rights and potential compensation before any deadlines expire.
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