**Columbia University Data Breach Exposes Sensitive Student Information**
In a significant data breach, sensitive financial and academic information of Columbia University students and alumni has been compromised. A review of the stolen data revealed that it includes bank account details, routing numbers, student loan and scholarship information, standardized test scores, grade-point averages, class schedules, home addresses, and other personal contact information. Nine individuals, both current and former students who attended Columbia since the 1990s, have confirmed the accuracy of their information within the leaked files.
This breach adds to the challenges faced by Columbia University, which is already navigating a tumultuous period following allegations of fostering antisemitism and discrimination based on race and national origin during its contentious interactions with the Trump administration. In response to inquiries, a university spokesperson stated that the investigation into the cyberattack is ongoing, and they believe that both applicant and student data, as well as some employee personal information, have been compromised. Notifications to affected individuals are set to begin this week, with the university urging all community members to remain vigilant against potential scams and to monitor their accounts for any suspicious activity.
The investigation into the cyberattack was initiated in June after an IT outage at the university raised concerns. A university official described the attacker as a “hacktivist,” indicating that the motivation behind the breach was political rather than financial. Last month, it was reported that personal information from decades of applications to Columbia, including acceptance and rejection statuses, had also been stolen.
The 53.6-gigabyte cache of data was made available by an individual named Jordan Lasker, who operates a blog known for promoting controversial views on race and intelligence. Lasker claimed to have obtained the data from the alleged hacker, who communicated with media outlets via social media but chose to remain anonymous due to fears of self-incrimination. The authenticity of the hacker’s claims has not been independently verified, and it remains unclear who else may have access to the stolen information.
As the investigation continues, the implications of this breach could be far-reaching, affecting not only the university’s reputation but also the privacy and security of its students and alumni.
**FAQ**
*What should affected individuals do following the data breach?*
Affected individuals are advised to monitor their financial accounts for any suspicious activity, remain vigilant against potential scams, and follow any guidance provided by Columbia University regarding the breach.