A data breach on the Buena Vista University campus has allowed unauthorized access to a database of thousands of records.
University officials say a nationally-recognized computer forensics team was hired to conduct an investigation and discovered the breach, which may include names, Social Security numbers, and some driver’s license numbers for B-V-U students, parents, faculty and staff, alumni, and some donor records.
The records date back to 1987. Campus officials say there’s no indication any of the personal information has been or is being misused or disclosed to other people. The unauthorized access was confirmed in June, and they began identifying and notifying the 93,000 people involved. The incident has been referred to the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota.
University president Fred Moore says the security of all personal information provided to the university is of utmost importance and they deeply regret this incident has occurred. He says they’re taking steps to mitigate any risk of potential harm. The university is in the process of providing formal notification to state attorneys general and to authorities in Puerto Rico.
It also mailed letters to all 93,000 people whose data may have been accessed, informing them of the incident and about steps they can take to protect their personal information and credit. The school has also contracted with a leading national credit protection agency to provide credit monitoring and protection services at no charge.
By Joel Hermann, KAYL, Storm Lake