Personal info data breach at Laurentian University after Cyber Attack.
On February 18, 2024, Laurentian University was hit with a cyber attack that resulted in the shutdown of many of its IT services. After more than two weeks of silence, the university has finally provided new information on the incident, confirming a limited data breach that has affected some personal information stored in part of its network.
In a news release on Wednesday, the university stated, ‘Laurentian University confirms a limited data breach resulting from a broader cyber incident that came to the University’s attention on February 18, 2024.’ This cyber attack has compromised the data of individuals associated with the Living with Lakes Centre/ Co-operative Freshwater Ecology Unit and the Northern Ontario School of Medicine.
The university has identified the following groups of people as being affected by the breach: employees and student employees of the Living with Lakes Centre/ Co-operative Freshwater Ecology Unit hired since 2022, employees affiliated with the Living with Lakes Centre/ Co-operative Freshwater Ecology Unit who were approved to drive fleet vehicles from 2019 to present, graduate students affiliated with the Living with Lakes Centre/ Co-operative Freshwater Ecology Unit who were paid stipends between 2019 to present, and undergraduate medical students and postgraduate residents of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine who entered the program from 2005 to 2019.
The specific data that was exposed varies for each individual, and the university is still in the process of investigating to determine the extent of the breach. However, this process is expected to take several months.
In order to support those affected by the cyber attack, Laurentian University has announced that it will provide a two-year credit monitoring service at no cost to all individuals whose data was exposed. This service will allow them to monitor for any signs of identity fraud and take protective action if necessary. The university is urging all recipients to take advantage of this service, as it could potentially save them from any further harm.
The university also stated, ‘This protective service is of significant benefit, and we encourage recipients to take advantage of it.’ It is clear that Laurentian University is taking this cyber attack breach seriously and is committed to providing support for those affected.
In the meantime, the university has also taken steps to improve its IT security and prevent any future cyber incidents. It has implemented additional security measures and is working with experts to ensure the safety of its network and data.
The news of this cyber attack and data breach has undoubtedly caused concern among the university community. However, with the support and actions taken by Laurentian University, those affected can take comfort in knowing that steps are being taken to mitigate the impact of this incident. The university has promised to provide updates as the investigation progresses and encourages anyone with questions or concerns to reach out for assistance.