University Research Information Exposes Participant Data
By Adam Dodge - Posted on September 29th, 2006
Quick Facts
- Date: 09/29/2006
- Institution: University of Iowa
- Type of Incident: Penetration
- Number Affected: 14,500
- Source: ESI
- Abstract Source: Iowa City Press-Citizen
Abstract
The University of Iowa has discovered that a computer used in a study on maternal and child health going back to 1995 was breached by computer attackers. Among other things, this computer contained the Social Security numbers on the 14,500 individuals that have participated in this study of the years. UI has sent out a letter to all affected individuals with instructions on how to monitor credit reports and place fraud alerts with the major credit agencies. University officials believe the attack to be the work of individuals seeking a place to store video files for illegal distribution. However, the university has contacted law enforcement and an investigation has been launched.
Tagged: University of Iowa
• 2006
• Educational Security Incidents (ESI)
• Penetration
• Personally Identifying Information
• Social Security Numbers
