September 23, 2025 | Negligence
Your Rights Under State and Federal Law
Kentucky has rules in place that require companies to protect sensitive information and notify people quickly when a breach occurs. If an organization doesn’t take those responsibilities seriously, it could be held accountable.Depending on the situation, federal laws may also come into play:- HIPAA protects medical records.
- The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) covers credit reporting information.
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can sue businesses that use unfair or deceptive practices, such as failing to secure customer data.
What Kinds of Compensation Can I Recover for a Data Breach?
Every data breach is different, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all dollar figure. What you might recover depends on the type of data that was exposed and how it’s affected you. Potential compensation could cover things like:- Out-of-pocket costs: fees for credit monitoring, identity theft protection, or restoring your credit
- Financial losses: money stolen from your bank account or fraudulent charges on your cards
- Emotional distress: the anxiety, frustration, and fear that often come with knowing someone else has your personal information
- Future risks: the ongoing possibility of identity theft or fraud years after the breach
Class Actions vs. Individual Lawsuits
Since breaches often involve thousands of victims at once, many cases are handled through class action lawsuits. This allows a group of people with similar claims to take on a company together. If the case is successful, the settlement is divided among everyone involved.That said, an individual lawsuit may still be an option if your losses are significant or unique compared to others. For example, if you can show that your stolen information led to actual identity theft, drained accounts, or other concrete harm, you can file your own claim. A lawyer can help you decide whether joining a class action or pursuing an individual lawsuit makes the most sense in your situation.Why It Helps to Talk With a Lawyer
Companies know that breaches make people vulnerable. They may offer free credit monitoring or quick settlements to limit their liability. While those offers might sound tempting, accepting them could keep you from seeking the full amount you deserve later.An attorney who understands data breach cases can look at the bigger picture—how the breach happened, what laws apply, and what your damages truly are. They can also take on the stress of dealing with a large corporation or insurer, so that you don’t have to handle it alone.Steps to Take Right Away
Even before you file a claim, it’s smart to protect yourself:- Place a fraud alert or freeze on your credit.
- Keep a close eye on bank and credit card statements.
- Change passwords and turn on two-factor authentication where possible.
- Save receipts or records of money and time spent addressing the breach.