Quick Facts

• Date: 12/31/2009
• Institution: Eastern Washington University
• Type of Incident: Penetration
• Number Affected: 130,000
• Source: DataLoss DB
• Abstract Source: Seattle PI

Abstract
Eastern Washington University will soon being notifying current and former students following a sever breach. The system contained the names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers of 130,000 students dating back to 1987. The breach was discovered during a security assessment in early December. The investigation into the incident discovered that the system was breached and used to store video files. While the university does not have any evidence the information was accessed inappropriately, letters are being sent out as a precaution. In the letter to affected individuals, EWU President Rodolfo Arevalo stated that the university is treating the breach seriously and will continue to upgrade systems and security practices to protect sensitive information. EWU has setup a web site - www.ewu.edu/x67128.xml - with more information on the breach.