Oops! 'Private' UGA Data Went Public

If you worked at the university in 2002, your private information may have been made public.

According to a statement from UGA spokesman Tom Jackson, university officials recently discovered a data file on a publicly available web server. The file contained sensitive information, including Social Security numbers, on 18,931 faculty and staff members who were working at UGA in 2002.

Needless to say, officials took the data off-line immediately. And then they started an investigation. 

Someone had created the file for legitimate administrative purposes. It was accessible on the web from 2008 to 2011, and possibly dating back to 2002. Included on it were the Social Security number, name, date of birth, date of employment, sex, race, home phone number and home address of individuals employed at UGA in 2002.

“We deeply regret this situation and will take steps to notify and support the affected current and former faculty and staff,” said Timothy Chester, UGA’s chief information officer. Those affected will be contacted by mail or other means.

Chester said an outside firm is helping with the investigation and is evaluating the infrastructure and practices to reduce the risk of another security breach.

Anyone who worked at UGA in 2002 could have had his or her identity stolen. To guard against identity theft, employees should use this website

Additionally, those affected should review the information contained here to learn more about recommended precautions.

By following the steps, individuals can minimize the risk of identity theft. Comprehensive information on this incident, including an FAQ, can be found by clicking hereor by contacting the University of Georgia via the EITS HelpDesk at 706/542-3106.