With cybersecurity threats increasing every day, reporting employers must be sure to communicate any potential breach of security with TRS as soon as possible. It is imperative that our member information and pension security is protected against any potential threats with immediate action.
If your employer suspects or confirms a breach in security such as malware, ransomware, phishing attack, etc., even if the attack or breach was not in your Payroll or HR department, please follow the instructions below.
- Immediately notify TRS by calling 800.433.5734 and speak to your coach or the next available coach. Be sure to use a secure phone number.
- Provide your four digit RE number
- Provide the time/date of the security breach
- Provide any known TRS contacts affected
- Provide the contract information of your IT division and a phone number where your coach can reach your reporting official
- Do not attempt to access the TRS RE Portal once a breach has been identified (even if your department was not affected) until directed to do so by TRS and even if the reporting deadline is approaching or past. Alternative arrangements can be made after the threat has been resolved.
- Do not email TRS or respond to a secure message from TRS until the threat has passed. Communication should be done via telephone.
Immediate notification is critical to ensure that a data breach does not spread and potentially impact the security of our members and retirees.
If you would like to review some additional tips that TRS has provided, please review the Information Security articles in the Update newsletters: https://www.trs.texas.gov/Pages/about_publications.aspx