ST. LOUIS — A swath of St. Louis University personnel's confidential information may have been accessed during a months-long data breach, the university confirmed to 5 On Your Side Friday afternoon.
The breach, which happened from December 2022 through July 2023, happened after someone gained "unauthorized access" to university email accounts. The breach included names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, passport numbers, online credentials, digital signatures, health insurance information and medical information, the university said. The university reportedly alerted specific people as to what information of theirs was leaked.
"At this point, SLU is not aware of any fraud or identity theft to any individual as a result of this incident, but nonetheless is notifying potentially affected individuals to provide them with more information and resources," an email from the university said. "The notice includes information on steps individuals can take to protect themselves against potential fraud."
SLU officials recommended individuals regularly monitor credit reports, personal accounts and benefit statements. It also said it would be reviewing its technical safeguards to help reduce the likelihood of a breach happening in the future.
"Individuals seeking additional information may call a confidential, toll-free inquiry line at (866) 674-992 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday, excluding major U.S. holidays," the university said.
SLU said its investigation is still underway, but did not share information on who it believes is responsible for breaching the information.
This is a developing story. This article will be updated with the latest information as it is released.
Top St. Louis headlines
Get the latest news and details throughout the St. Louis area from 5 On Your Side broadcasts here.
