Western Montana Mental Health Center Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation
Were you recently notified that your personal or medical information was exposed by Western Montana Mental Health Center? Over 86,000 patients are now at heightened risk of identity theft after a serious cyber-attack. Learn how to safeguard your data and find out whether you can file a claim for compensation.
What Happened?
Western Montana Mental Health Center (WMMHC) — a behavioral health provider serving communities across Montana since 1971 — confirmed that an unauthorized party infiltrated its computer network. Investigators believe certain files were accessed without permission on or about May 27, 2025, although the intrusion was not discovered until September 15, 2024.
Federal regulators were informed on November 14, 2024, yet patient notification letters were not mailed until July 17, 2025. The breach was also reported to the attorneys general of Maine and Massachusetts the following day.
Whose Information Was Exposed?
According to regulatory filings, 86,758 individuals had both personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI) compromised. The confirmed data elements include:
- Full names and addresses
- Social Security numbers
- Dates of birth
- Driver’s license or state/federal ID numbers
- Medical records and treatment details
- Health-insurance information
- Financial account information
These details are highly valuable on the dark web and can be exploited for identity theft, tax fraud, medical fraud, and other illicit activity.
Your Immediate Action Plan
WMMHC is offering complimentary IDX identity-theft protection. Even if you enroll, additional steps are strongly advised:
- Activate credit monitoring and place a fraud alert or credit freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
- Review bank and credit-card statements for unauthorized charges.
- Beware of phishing attempts via phone, text, or email that reference your medical care.
- Save all breach-related correspondence; it may be needed if you join a lawsuit or file for reimbursement.
Can You Seek Compensation?
Victims of data breaches often incur out-of-pocket expenses, lost time, and emotional distress. Under privacy and consumer-protection laws, you may be eligible to pursue damages such as:
- Reimbursement for credit-monitoring or identity-theft services
- Refunds for fraudulent charges or bank fees
- Compensation for time spent securing accounts
- Payment for anxiety or emotional distress caused by the breach
Class-action investigations are underway to determine WMMHC’s liability and secure financial recovery for affected patients.
Timeline of Key Events
- 09/15/2024: Unauthorized access discovered.
- 11/14/2024: Breach reported to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
- 07/17/2025: Public notice posted and patient letters mailed.
- 07/18/2025: Incident disclosed to Maine & Massachusetts Attorneys General.
Western Montana Mental Health Center’s Response
The organization states it has strengthened cybersecurity defenses and notified all impacted individuals. In addition to free IDX credit monitoring, WMMHC says it is:
- Enhancing network security protocols
- Reviewing and updating internal policies
- Providing staff with additional security training
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Western Montana Mental Health Center offering free credit monitoring?
Yes. The center partnered with IDX to provide identity-theft services at no cost to affected patients for a limited time. Enrollment details are in your mailed notice.
How do I know if my data was included in the Western Montana Mental Health Center breach?
If you received a letter dated July 17, 2025 (or later) from WMMHC, your information was likely involved. You can also contact the call center referenced in the letter for confirmation.
What legal options do I have after the Western Montana Mental Health Center data breach?
Depending on your state laws and personal damages, you may join a class action or pursue individual claims seeking compensation for financial losses and emotional distress.
Will placing a credit freeze affect my credit score?
No. A credit freeze restricts new credit inquiries but does not impact your existing score. You can lift or “thaw” the freeze whenever you need to apply for credit.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit related to the Western Montana Mental Health Center breach?
The statute of limitations varies by state, but many consumer-protection claims must be filed within two to three years of discovering the breach. Consult an attorney promptly.
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