Cornwell Quality Tools Data Breach Lawsuit | Class Action Claims

The data breach lawyers at The Lyon Firm are investigating a recent data security incident at Cornwell Quality Tools, a well-known tool manufacturer and distributor. The breach may have compromised sensitive personal information. For victims, this type of cyberattack can lead to long-lasting consequences, from identity theft to financial fraud. Contact our firm in Cincinnati, Ohio to understand what happened, how your data may be affected, and what legal rights you have in the wake of this breach.

What Happened in the Cornwell Quality Tools Data Breach?

Cornwell Quality Tools recently disclosed that unauthorized individuals gained access to its computer systems, exposing sensitive information. While full details are still be under investigation, initial reports indicate that personal and financial data tied to employees, franchisees, and possibly customers may have been compromised. It has been reported that as many as 100,000 individuals may have been affected.

Cornwell has started notifying affected individuals, saying that it detected suspicious network activity on December 20, 2024. An investigation revealed that unauthorized actors had actually infiltrated company systems roughly a week earlier, gaining access to sensitive files.

In its disclosure, Cornwell reported that personal details—including names, Social Security numbers, medical records, and financial account information—may have been exposed during the incident. With this information, cybercriminals can commit identity theft, open fraudulent accounts, or file false tax returns. Even years after the initial breach, victims may continue to suffer financial harm and privacy violations.

The breach has been reported to the Maine Attorney General’s Office, which confirmed that approximately 103,782 people were impacted.

Headquartered in Wadsworth, Ohio, Cornwell Quality Tools is a long-established manufacturer known for producing ratchets, sockets, wrenches, and large tool storage systems distributed through hundreds of dealers across the U.S.

While the company has released limited information about the attack, the Cactus ransomware group publicly claimed responsibility in early February. To support its claims, the gang posted corporate records and images of driver’s licenses on its dark web leak site. The group ceased operations in March 2025, leaving uncertainty as to whether the stolen Cornwell data was ultimately published or sold.

This was not the company’s first brush with ransomware. Back in 2022, the Hive ransomware operation also alleged that it carried out an attack on Cornwell Quality Tools.

Risks and Consequences of the Breach

The exposure of personal and financial information poses serious risks, including:

• Identity theft: Stolen Social Security numbers and personal identifiers can be used to open fraudulent accounts.

• Financial fraud: Criminals may attempt unauthorized transactions or drain bank accounts.

• Tax fraud: Cybercriminals often use stolen data to file fraudulent tax returns and claim refunds.

• Long-term monitoring costs: Victims may need to invest in ongoing credit monitoring and identity protection services.

• Emotional stress: The uncertainty of not knowing how your information is being used can cause anxiety and disruption.

What to Do If You Were Affected

If you received a notification letter from Cornwell Quality Tools or suspect that your information was compromised, consider taking these immediate steps:

1. Read the breach notification carefully to understand what data may have been exposed.

2. Place fraud alerts with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).

3. Enroll in credit monitoring if it is offered, but also consider independent monitoring for additional protection.

4. Review bank and credit card statements regularly for unauthorized charges.

5. Change passwords and enable multi-factor authentication for your online accounts.

6. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you suspect identity theft.

Legal Options for Victims of Data Breaches

Victims of data breaches may have the right to pursue legal action against companies that fail to adequately protect their data. Data privacy lawsuits can help recover damages related to financial losses, identity restoration expenses, and emotional distress.

Cornwell Quality Tools and other companies that experience breaches are often targeted for class-action lawsuits, where groups of victims join together to hold corporations accountable for negligence.

An experienced data breach attorney can help determine whether you qualify for compensation and guide you through the process of filing a claim.

Why Hire The Lyon Firm?

The Lyon Firm has extensive experience representing individuals affected by corporate data breaches. When local Ohio companies fail to protect sensitive information, victims deserve strong advocacy to secure compensation and prevent similar negligence in the future. Hiring The Lyon Firm offers key advantages:

• Proven Experience: The firm has handled numerous data privacy and cybersecurity lawsuits nationwide.

• Individualized Attention: Each case is reviewed carefully to build the strongest claim possible.

• No Upfront Fees: The Lyon Firm operates on a contingency basis, meaning clients only pay if compensation is recovered.

• Commitment to Justice: Beyond financial recovery, the firm seeks to improve corporate accountability and strengthen consumer protections in Ohio and nationwide.

By working with a local, knowledgeable attorney, victims can take action to protect their rights and hold negligent companies accountable.

FAQs About the Cornwell Quality Tools Data Breach

1. How do I know if I was affected?
Cornwell Quality Tools should notify individuals whose data was exposed. Check your mail or email for official breach notification letters.

2. Can I join a lawsuit if my data was compromised?
Yes. Victims of the breach may qualify to join a class-action lawsuit or pursue individual claims depending on the circumstances.

3. What damages can I recover?
Compensation may include financial losses, costs of credit monitoring, expenses tied to identity theft recovery, and emotional distress.

4. How long do I have to file a claim?
Each state has different statutes of limitations for data breach lawsuits. Contacting an attorney quickly ensures your rights are preserved.

5. Do I need to pay upfront to hire The Lyon Firm?
No. The Lyon Firm works on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless a recovery is secured.