Hacked computers cause University of Regina privacy breach

The University of Regina has launched an investigation after being targeted by hackers, causing concern overcompromised 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.-KimMcKechney,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 saidit 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 everyoneon campus to change and strengthen their personal passwords.