Ohio History Connection
Data Breach Class Action

August 24, 2023 -- Attention: victims of the Ohio History Connection data breach.

In the beginning of July, 2023, a group of cybercriminals launched a ransomware assault on OHC's internal data servers, subsequently encrypting their data and holding it captive. The hackers then pressed OHC to pay a substantial ransom to prevent the public disclosure of this data. While OHC couldn't meet the exact amount requested, they proposed a counteroffer to the hackers in hopes of safeguarding the data. However, on August 7, this proposition was declined by the cybercriminals, making the personal data potentially available to interested parties.

Approximately 7,600 individuals were affected by the Ohio History Connection data breach.

Breached data may include, but is not necessarily limited to: 1) Personal details, including names, residences, and Social Security identifiers of both present and past OHC staff members (spanning 2009 to 2023). 2) Documentation such as W-9 forms and additional records that display the names and individual Social Security identifiers of suppliers who had service agreements with OHC. 3) Photographic records of checks given to OHC by certain members and benefactors starting from 2020.

For more information about steps you can take to possibly reduce the chances harm arising from a data breach, please review the following article: What are some steps you can take if you've been the victim of a data breach?

Additional information about the Ohio History Connection data breach may be found here: Ohio History Connection.

The group known today as the Ohio History Connection, previously called the Ohio Historical Society, serves as a central historical institution for the state. Established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1885, its primary objective is to ignite interest in Ohio's rich narratives. Dedicated to conserving and disseminating Ohio's historical legacy, the organization oversees the State Historic Preservation Office, maintains the official state archives, runs the Community Engagement Department, and manages an expansive network of over 50 locations and museums throughout the state.

If you believe you are a victim of the Ohio History Connection data breach, and would like to participate in a class action lawsuit regarding this data breach, please submit your information via the form on this webpage. This website is not associated with nor authorized by Ohio History Connection or any affiliated companies.