Foreign Hackers Break into University of North Florida Computer Systems

A University of North Florida computer file containing the sensitive information of 106,884 high school and college students may have been compromised by a foreign hacker.

The university recently reported how someone outside the United States gained access to a computer server containing a confidential file of information, possibly to either disrupt normal business, or use the computer’s processing power to launch similar attacks on other computers. The file contained information of current and prospective UNF students and others who have expressed interest in the college.

Of those affected, 52,853 had their names and Social Security numbers compromised, and 54,031 had their names and dates of birth compromised. In some cases, the intruder may have had access to ACT and/or SAT test scores, which are collected as part of the application process. UNF academic grades, financial aid information and course histories are not at risk, the college reported.

Although the college has no proof that confidential information was stolen, it took immediate steps to contain the breach and to prevent further unauthorized access. In addition, the university has notified affected individuals by letter.

“At this point, we do not know who this intruder is, but our investigation into the incident has been brought to the attention of the FBI,” school officials said in a statement. “The FBI is now working with our University Police Department on the case. This is an ongoing investigation, and the cause and intent has yet to be determined.”

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