Data Breach Resources

Residents are urged to take action to protect their personal data

Rhode Island's public benefits computer system known as RI Bridges was breached on Friday, December 13, 2024. The breach impacts snap benefits application information and passwords and usernames for EBT cardholders. Banking information and social security numbers could also be compromised. It is also possible that residents who have received or applied for most health or benefits programs over the last eight years are impacted as well.

Individuals who have received or applied for health coverage and/or health and human services programs or benefits could be impacted. Such programs include but are not limited to:    

• Medicaid     
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)    
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)     
• Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) 
• Health coverage purchased through HealthSource RI    
• Rhode Island Works (RIW) 
• Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) 
• General Public Assistance (GPA) Program 
• At HOME Cost Share 

How to Protect Yourself & Your Information

Visit the state of Rhode Island's new site for the latest information: Cyberalert.ri.gov or call 833-918-6603 (toll free) Open 9:00am-9:00pm Monday through Friday

1. Freeze Your Credit by contacting all three of the following credit reporting agencies

• Equifax: 1-888-298-0045 
• Experian: 1-888-397-3742 
• TransUnion: 1-800-916-8800 

 2. Order a Free Credit Report from one of the agencies listed above

You can also access a free credit report online here.  

 3. Place a free Fraud Alert on Your Files through one of the above agencies

This is lets creditors know to contact you before any new accounts can be opened in your name.

 4. Use Multi-factor Authentication

Double protection makes it much harder for cybercriminals to access your information. 

5. Be Aware

Never share personal information such as your social security number, date of birth or password through an unsolicited e-mail, call or text. Legitimate companies and banks do not know your password and will never ask for it. 

6. For those with EBT cards, change your PIN immediately

For help with this, call: 888-979-9939

To Apply for Benefits Right Now

At this time, new customers applying for benefits through the state of Rhode Island can submit a paper application at any of the regional offices or the paper application can be dropped off in our secure drop boxes. Visit https://dhs.ri.gov/about-us/dhs-offices for information regarding office locations.

The paper application, DHS-2 Application for Benefits, is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese on the state’s website: https://dhs.ri.gov/apply-now

For More Information

Visit the state of Rhode Island's special FAQ page or call 401-270-0101.