A 2017 data breach impacting more than 600 workers in the Capital Region reached a settlement, but now those compromised are warning others of the dangers of these phishing scams. 

The breach happened at Taconic Biosciences in Rennssalear back in January 2017. About 665 workers had their personal information compromised after their W2 was given out through email, to a hacker disguised as the company CEO. 

However, many of those impacted did not realize their personal information was compromised until they went to file their taxes that year, and discovered someone had already done so under their name. 

Those impacted say the company then sent out a letter that same month explaining of the error, which led to the hack. One victim, John Denier, says this is something that will follow him the rest of his life.

"Even when I go to open a credit card or purchase something, I have a lock on my identity where I have to release that lock, that I approve it. So it just reminds you every time you do a transaction what had happened in the past, and how critical this information is — that you have to hold it so close," said former employee Dernier. 

The results were a $2.7 million class action settlement. Taconic Biosciences will also be paying for identity theft protection for these employees for two years. 

Lawyers at Mcnamee Lochner in Albany handled many of these cases. They say these breaches can happen to anyone and people need to be aware of their personal information, even when in the hands of their employers. 

Shareholders April Dalbec and Jacob Lamme say simple steps can prevent it. 

"Even though it looks like your boss, even though it looks like the CEO of the company, roll your arrow over it to see where that email is coming from. Or pick up the phone and say 'hey did you really need this?' It's the simple steps that can prevent large problems," Dalbec said.

Those who have not done so are able to file for benefits under this settlement until July 15, 2020. Details and claim forms are available at Taconic's website. There's also a free hotline for those with questions on filing procedures or eligibility: 1-877-845-8130.