On July 16, 2024, FCDG Management, LLC d/b/a First Choice Dental (“FCD”) filed a notice of data breach with the Attorney General of Maine after a ransomware attack compromised the company’s IT network. In this notice, FCD explains that the incident resulted in an unauthorized party being able to access consumers’ sensitive information, which includes their names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, passport numbers, driver’s license numbers, financial account information, and health information. Upon completing its investigation, FCD began sending out data breach notification letters to all individuals whose information was affected by the recent data security incident.

If you received a data breach notification from First Choice Dental, it is essential you understand what is at risk and what you can do about it. A data breach lawyer can help you learn more about how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of fraud or identity theft, as well as discuss your legal options following the First Choice Dental data breach. For more information, please see our recent piece on the topic here.

What Caused the First Choice Dental Data Breach?

The First Choice Dental data breach was only recently announced, and more information is expected in the near future. However, FCD’s filing with the Attorney General of Maine provides some important information on what led up to the breach. FCD also posted a website notice discussing the incident.

According to these sources, on October 22, 2023, FCD learned that it had been the target of a ransomware attack when portions of its computer network were encrypted. In response, FCD disconnected its systems and then began working with third-party cybersecurity experts to investigate the incident.

Through this investigation, FCD learned that the unauthorized party accessed certain files on its computer network that contained confidential patient information.

After learning that sensitive consumer data was accessible to an unauthorized party, First Choice Dental reviewed the compromised files to determine what information was leaked and which consumers were impacted. FCD completed this process in May 2024. While the breached information varies depending on the individual, it may include your name, date of birth, Social Security number, passport number, driver’s license number, financial account information, and health information.

On July 12, 2024, First Choice Dental sent out data breach letters to anyone who was affected by the recent data security incident. These letters should provide victims with a list of what information belonging to them was compromised.

More Information About First Choice Dental

Founded in 1996, FCDG Management, LLC d/b/a First Choice Dental is a dental care provider based out of Madison, Wisconsin. FCD provides a range of dental care services, including general dentistry, restorative treatment, cosmetic dentistry, sedation dentistry, TMJ neuromuscular treatment, orthodontics, periodontic care, endodontic care, laser dentistry, and oral surgery. FCD operates 12 locations throughout Wisconsin, including Cottage Grove, Fitchburg, Madison East Marling, Madison West, Middleton, Stoughton, Sun Prairie, Sun Prairie North, Verona, and Waunakee. First Choice Dental employs more than 110 people and generates approximately $10 million in annual revenue.