The University of Virginia confirmed
on Friday that its various information systems were attacked by “sophisticated
attackers originating in China” earlier this year. After the attack, the
University had started to upgrade its security system. It has asked the system
users to change their E-services login passwords once the upgrade is done.
In order to inform its member, Patrick Hoganm, Executive
Vice President (EVP) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) wrote in a mail, “Our
forensic investigation has indicated that no personally identifiable
information such as Social Security numbers and banking information or personal
health information was accessed. There is also no evidence that sensitive
research material was accessed.”
Mandiant, a security firm and federal authorities came up
with their investigation report that no personal information was accessed.
According to a report published in Cavalier daily, the
University first confirmed the attack on June 11 when the federal authorities
told them about the breach.
“We thank the members
of the University community for their patience as systems were being upgraded,”
Hogan said. “The security of your information and other data stored on
University systems is of the utmost importance, and our dedicated teams of
professionals will remain vigilant in protecting the University’s information
technology infrastructure.”