Personal data stolen from members of academic community
The University of Algarve (UAlg) has confirmed that hackers targeted its academic management system between November 14 and 19, stealing personal data from members of its academic community.
The university was only able to end the cyberattack on the evening of November 19 with a software update. While classes and research continued uninterrupted, the breach exposed sensitive information belonging to applicants, students, and staff. Stolen data may include names, email addresses, phone numbers, and even IBANs (bank account numbers).
UAlg has assured the affected individuals they’ve been contacted directly, detailing what was compromised and advising on how to protect themselves. Authorities were notified immediately, with the National Cybersecurity Centre, the Data Protection Commission, and the police’s Cybercrime Unit now investigating the incident.
In a statement, the university expressed regret over the attack and its possible consequences.
“UAlg always has the commitment of maintaining the highest level of information security of all the members of its academic community,” the university says, adding that it will look to improve its commitment.
