NDSCS Warned about Unfortunate Malware Activity

Databreaches.net reported on 9th October, 2014 stating that North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) Information Technology Services department has been warned of a malware activity on many computers owned by NDSCS.

Malware was intercepted on several computers of Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) in Wahpeton, N.D. and Fargo on 1st September, 2014. While cleaning the malware, ITS members found names and SSNs of some former and present students and workers on many affected systems.

The College instantly took measures by stepping up the security of its systems and informed System office of North Dakota University and called up the security staff of the University System information technology to help in carrying out an internal probe.

The college does not believe that any personal details of anyone were stolen during the breach which affected 15,000 people.

The college in an official release says that our investigation along with the analysis of an external forensics company helped reveal that even after malware detection on many computers there was no evidence of transfer or access of any sensitive information from the affected computers.

According to forensic investigation, most probably the malware was planned to be employed on the affected machines to launch cyber attacks on other machines and systems.

Databreaches.net published news on 9th October, 2014 quoting John Richman, Ph.D, President of NDSCS as saying "We are committed to the privacy of information of students and employees. We are continually reviewing our practices and processes to enhance the security of sensitive information and this incident reminds us to be even more vigilant in these efforts."

As a precautionary measure, NDSCS has decided to give identity protection for 12 months to those affected without any extra cost. The college has also set-up a web page providing additional details about the unfortunate incident which can be accessed at www.ndscs.edu/data.

A toll-free hotline no. (877) 615-3755 has been set up to answer questions about the breach. According to the release, the hotline has started on Friday, 10th October, 2014 at 8 a.m. and will operate from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout Monday to Saturday "for the foreseeable future".

» SPAMfighter News - 10/16/2014