Social Security Numbers and Other Data Compromised in University of Michigan Cyber Attack

Social security numbers and other financial information were compromised during a cyber security attack that crippled the University of Michigan in August.

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Not Just Student Data

According to a statement released Monday afternoon (10/23) by the University of Michigan, an unauthorized third party was able to gain access to myriad personal information of not just students, but employees, healthcare patients, alumni, donors, research study participants, and other members of the campus community.

The breach put social security numbers, driver's license numbers, financial account information, and medical records into unauthorized hands.

What U of M Campuses Were Affected?

The University of Michigan Internet Technologies noticed suspicious activity on the computer network on August 23 of this year and disconnected the university's network from the Internet. The cybersecurity attack is believed to have infiltrated the network at U of M's main campus in Ann Arbor as well as the university's Flint and Dearborn campuses.

Campus officials contacted law enforcement and have since begun working with third-party cybersecurity experts.

What Action Should be Taken by Anyone Who May Have Been Affected?

Anyone whose data was compromised should have received a letter in the mail from the University of Michigan outlining the details of the breach. The university is also offering free credit monitoring services to anyone who believes their personal information may have been compromised.

The University of Michigan is also urging everyone to always be on the lookout and take steps to safeguard themselves against fraud and identity theft. Changing passwords regularly, keeping an eye on financial statements, and being vigilant about avoiding bad actors who may be out to steal personal information.