Laptop Containing Applicants' Info Stolen from UConn

A laptop containing names and social security numbers of 10,174 applicants to UConn was stolen from the West Hartford campus.

The computer was being kept in a storage cabinet in the campus’ information technology department and was discovered missing on Aug. 3, school officials said.

UConn is investigating and said many of the applicants were selected for consideration to attend the regional campus.

Information on the computer included files of undergraduate admissions-related data that contained the contact information and social security numbers of the applicants from 2004 through July 30, 2010.

“We deeply regret this incident. The University takes security of personal data seriously and is continuing its investigation to determine whether any University policies were not followed,” Jason Pufahl, interim chief information security officer at the University, said. “The university will take corrective steps and, if warranted, disciplinary action.”

School officials said their investigation indicates that no one has tried to access university resources through the computer, nor is there any indication the laptop was stolen to steal identities.

The school has taken steps to prevent unauthorized access to university computer systems through the device and is contacting, in writing, everyone whose name was on the computer.

The school is also offering the individuals credit monitoring coverage for two years, at the university’s expense. 

Information about the UConn theft comes the day after Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said his office is investigating a data breach involving a laptop stolen from Yale Medical School. It contains personal health information on 1,0000 people.

Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said his office is investigating. 

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