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UNC Charlotte investigates potential online security breach

By Meghan Cooke
macooke@charlotteobserver.com

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is investigating how private information might have leaked onto the Internet in an apparent online security breach.

Officials said they're not sure any university data was compromised but have launched an investigation to asses the situation, which may have been the result of human error.

Officials didn't specify what kinds of information might have been leaked but said they are working with a computer forensics firm to determine whether any personally identifiable information or health information was accessed by unauthorized people.

The university became aware of the potential problem on Jan. 31, according to a message posted on the UNCC Information and Technology Services website. Students were alerted to the issue Wednesday.

Officials said they first worked to ensure there was no unauthorized information available on the Internet and then reached out to a forensics firm for help. The investigation could take several weeks, officials said.

"At this time, we believe the potential exposure was the result of configuration errors," the university said.

"As with any potential security incident, people are encouraged to be diligent in reviewing their personal information."

Officials said that people determined to be at risk of identity theft or other fraud will be notified in writing.

Visit securityincident.uncc.edu for more information.

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