Ferris State University
Stolen Ferris State University Laptop Contained Applicant Data
Quick Facts
- Date: 10/31/2007
- Institution: Ferris State University
- Type of Incident: Theft
- Number Affected: 18,000
- Source: Pogo Was Right
- Abstract Source: mLife
Abstract
Ferris State University is alerting applicants that their personal information was stored on a laptop stolen from a recruiter's car. The laptop contained the names, address, dates of birth, telephone numbers, e-mail address and academic information on 18,000 2007 and 2008 applicants. According to university officials, the information on the laptops is protected by two levels of user identification and passwords so the risk of identity theft is low. However, the university wants to make sure students are aware of the risks and what steps they can take to protect themselves. Toward this end, the university has created a web site - www.ferris.edu/laptoptheft - as well as a phone line - 800-433-7747 - to help answer questions and provide information.
