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IRS Data Breach

 

The NHCS district recently received a second data breach notification from the IRS, following a previous incident last month. The breach, linked to data collected by a contractor from 2018-2020 and unlawfully disclosed by Charles Edward Littlejohn, may include sensitive taxpayer information such as Social Security Numbers, addresses, and vendor tax details. Although federal authorities have recovered the data and found no evidence of identity theft, the district remains uncertain if staff or vendors were affected. NHCS is working with attorneys, other districts, and the IRS to address the issue, ensure transparency, and provide support, including a dedicated website with resources and updates. Protecting the privacy and well-being of staff and families remains the district's top priority.

 
 

Superintendent's Message: Tuesday, January 14, 2025

Dear NHCS Staff,

I am reaching out to you today to share news of a second data breach notification that has impacted our district in just the past month. I understand how distressing this is, especially as we are still working through the implications of the first breach. On January 10, 2025, we received a letter from the IRS, dated December 16, 2024, notifying us that taxpayer data connected to NHCS may have been affected. 

Details of the Breach

The IRS has informed us that this breach stems from data collected by a contractor between 2018 and 2020 and unlawfully disclosed by an individual named Charles Edward Littlejohn.

The compromised data may include:

  • Taxpayer Identification Numbers (SSNs and EINs)
  • Names, addresses, and other information from tax forms, such as 1099s and Schedule K-1s. (Vendor tax forms) 

The IRS has assured us that there is currently no evidence this information has been used for identity theft or fraud. Federal authorities have also confirmed that they have recovered the data in question. At this time we are uncertain if this data breach includes staff and/or vendors, but we wanted you to be notified as quickly as possible of this possible threat.

I want to acknowledge how unsettling it is to hear about another breach, and I deeply empathize with the stress this may cause for you and your families. Please know that we are committed to doing everything in our power to address this situation and provide the support you need during this time.

Steps We’re Taking

Your well-being and trust are at the forefront of every action we take. In response to this breach, we have:

  • Consulted with other districts across North Carolina, many of whom also received similar notifications, to validate this information.
  • Engaged with our attorneys to evaluate the legal implications and determine the most effective steps forward.
  • Actively collaborated with the IRS to seek clarity on:
    • Who within our community may have been affected
    • What specific data was compromised

Support for Our Staff and Families

To provide you with the resources and updates you need, we have created a dedicated website that includes:

  • Detailed information from the IRS and Department of Justice.
  • Guidance on implementing a security freeze to protect against potential misuse of your data.
  • IRS is notifying all issuers and recipients of the information returns."  This implies individuals whose information was potentially compromised will be contacted because we would have sent them copies of these documents.

Our Commitment to You

I want to personally assure you that the safety and privacy of our staff, students, and families are our highest priorities. While we await further clarity from the IRS, we will continue to advocate on your behalf and provide transparent, timely communication as it is relayed to us.

We understand that trust can feel shaken during times like these. Please know that we are here for you and will do everything we can to protect and support our NHCS family.

If you have additional questions or concerns, I encourage you to visit the dedicated website. You are not alone in navigating this challenging time, and together, we will work through it.

Sincerely,

Christopher R. Barnes, Ed.D.
Interim Superintendent
New Hanover County Schools

 
  • If you have questions about the law or any private right of action you may have, you should consult an attorney.

   ​​​​ Free Security Freeze Details and Instructions

"A “security freeze” blocks access to your credit unless you have given your permission. This can prevent an identity thief from opening a new account or getting credit in your name. All consumers can get a free security freeze online, by phone or by mail. A security freeze, also known as a credit or a file freeze, can be lifted (or “thawed”) temporarily when you are applying for credit, or removed permanently. Parents and guardians can also shield their children’s credit report with a special Protected Consumer security freeze. These freezes can also be used to safeguard incapacitated adults."

-DOJ Website