Hacked computers cause University of Regina privacy breach
3 computers on campus were accessed without authorization
The University of Regina has launched an investigation after being targeted by hackers, causing concern over compromised personal information.
This week, the university identified three computers on campus which had been accessed without authorization as a result of two separate cyber attacks.
It was enough of a breach that we're taking it very seriously.- Kim McKechney, University of Regina
One of the computers contained personal information including names, addresses, phone numbers, student identification numbers, employee numbers, social insurance numbers, birth dates, and grades.
Kim McKechney, executive director of communications at the University of Regina, confirmed the privacy breach.
"At this point we don't have any evidence that any personal information has actually been disclosed or used maliciously, but it was enough of a breach that we're taking it very seriously," he said.
Forensic analysis ordered
The university has since ordered a thorough digital forensic analysis. They have also notified faculty, staff and students, as well as the Office of the Saskatchewan Information and Privacy Commissioner.
Once the digital forensic analysis is complete, the university will determine whether the matter needs to be reported to police.
McKechney said it would be speculative to say how many students and staff would have had their personal information at risk, but they are recommending, at a minimum, for everyone on campus to change and strengthen their personal passwords.