Essex Property Trust Reports Cyber-Incident on Computer Networks

PALO ALTO, CA--(Marketwired - Sep 29, 2014) - Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE: ESS) ("Essex" or "the Company") today reported that certain of its computer networks containing personal and proprietary information have been compromised by a cyber-intrusion. Essex has confirmed that evidence exists of exfiltration of data on company systems. The precise nature of the data has not yet been identified and the Company does not presently have any evidence that data belonging to the company has been misused.

After detecting unusual activity, the Company took immediate steps to assess and contain the intrusion and secure its systems. Essex has retained independent forensic computer experts to analyze the impacted data systems and is consulting with law enforcement. The investigation into this cyber-intrusion is ongoing, and the team is working as quickly as possible to identify whether any employee or tenant data may be at risk. When the analysis is complete, Essex will notify any affected parties promptly, as appropriate.

Michael Schall, Essex's President and CEO, stated, "Protecting the personal information of our tenants and employees -- and maintaining their trust -- is of critical importance to Essex. Unfortunately, cyber-criminals are finding new ways to infiltrate data systems every day, leaving companies increasingly vulnerable to these kinds of events. Our team is working around-the-clock to fully assess the situation and determine whether any personal information could be at risk. Essex will continue to investigate this matter and will provide further updates once more information becomes available."

A help line has also been established to assist tenants and employees who have questions. The help line numbers are 1-855-398-6434 (toll-free) and 1-512-201-2182 (for international callers). The help line will be staffed starting Wednesday October 1, 2014 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Pacific Time), Monday through Saturday.

About Essex Property Trust, Inc.
Essex Property Trust, Inc., an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages multifamily residential properties in selected West Coast markets. Essex currently has ownership interests in 242 apartment communities with an additional 11 properties in various stages of active development or in the initial leasing phase. Additional information about Essex can be found on the Company's web site at www.essex.com.