Cannon Corporation, operating under the brand CannonDesign, is notifying its clients about a data breach that occurred earlier this year. CannonDesign, a renowned architectural, engineering, and consulting firm based in the United States, is well-known for its work on high-profile projects such as academic buildings, hospitals, and sports arenas. This CannonDesign data breach, which has raised concerns about the security of sensitive information, primarily impacts current and former CannonDesign employees and their dependents.
“The Cannon Corporation (“Cannon Design”) is announcing a recent event that impacts the security of information related to certain current or former Cannon Design employees and their dependents,” reads the official notice.
Details of CannonDesign Data Breach
On January 25, 2023, CannonDesign detected suspicious activity within its computer network, triggering a swift response to secure its systems and minimize operational disruptions. An in-depth investigation was launched to determine the extent of the breach.
It was discovered that an unauthorized third party had gained access to specific parts of CannonDesign’s network between January 19, 2023, and January 25, 2023. The investigation revealed that sensitive information belonging to certain individuals had been accessed or acquired by an unauthorized party.
CannonDesign completed a thorough review of the affected data by May 3, 2024. Although the company has not found any evidence that the compromised information has been used for identity theft or fraud, it is notifying all potentially impacted individuals as a precautionary measure.
Information Compromised
The information exposed in the CannonDesign data breach includes a combination of personal details, such as:
- Names
- Contact information
- Social Security or Social Insurance numbers
- Driver’s license or state identification numbers
- Passport numbers
- Dates of birth
The compromised data is considered highly sensitive, potentially putting affected individuals at risk of identity theft or fraud.
CannonDesign’s Response and Measures Taken
CannonDesign has taken the data breach very seriously, immediately launching an investigation to assess the scope of the incident and securing its network. The company has also notified relevant state regulators, as required by law, and is working on implementing additional security measures to prevent future incidents.
In its official notice, CannonDesign reassured clients and employees of its commitment to safeguarding personal information and emphasized that it is taking steps to enhance the security of its systems.
Guidance for Affected Individuals
CannonDesign is urging all potentially impacted individuals to take precautionary measures to protect their personal information. The company advises reviewing account statements and monitoring credit reports for any suspicious activity. Under U.S. law, consumers are entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Individuals can order their free credit report by visiting http://www.annualcreditreport.com or calling 1-877-322-8228.
Placing Fraud Alerts and Credit Freezes
To further safeguard their credit, individuals can place a fraud alert or a credit freeze on their credit files at no cost. A fraud alert notifies businesses to verify the identity of the consumer before extending new credit, which can help prevent identity theft. An initial fraud alert lasts for one year, while an extended fraud alert, available to identity theft victims, lasts for seven years.
A credit freeze, on the other hand, restricts access to the consumer’s credit report without explicit authorization, making it difficult for identity thieves to open new accounts in the consumer’s name. While a credit freeze offers robust protection, it may also delay or interfere with the approval process for new loans or credit accounts. Under federal law, credit reporting agencies cannot charge consumers to place or lift a credit freeze.
CannonDesign understands that affected individuals may have additional questions or concerns regarding the data breach. The company has set up a dedicated helpline at 833-918-4990, available Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 8 pm CST (excluding major U.S. holidays). Additionally, individuals can reach out to CannonDesign in writing at 50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 200, Buffalo, New York 14202.
