University News
WIU Responds To Data System Security Breach
June 15, 2006
MACOMB, IL - - In response to a recently discovered breach of data security on Western Illinois University computer systems, the University has taken steps to protect its computer systems against further breaches and notified individuals their records may have been reviewed or copied.
Western Illinois University closed a breach in computer security and adopted additional security measures in response to a June 5 breach of campus system records, said Mitch Davidson, executive director of University Computer Support Services, who is coordinating the campuswide technical group responding to the incident. We regret any inconvenience and problems this breach may cause individuals. We are working diligently to ensure that the University computer systems are as secure as possible, with the goal that this type of breach does not occur again.
While a University investigation suggests records were not copied from the system, the University is taking a comprehensive approach that involves a review of all areas of Westerns computer systems operations, according to Davidson. The University is notifying individuals with records in the system which may have been viewed or copied. Given the potential criminal implications, the Office of Public Safety has been notified.
The University also recommends that prudent steps be taken by individuals potentially impacted by the breach to protect themselves from possible identity theft or other security related issues.
To assist in answering questions regarding the unauthorized computer system access and computer security issues, the University has established a Web site at www.wiu.edu/securityalert and provided a toll free prerecorded telephone information message at 877/556-4100 or for Macomb area service 309/298-4100.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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