Western Sydney University Details

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    Western Sydney University

    Sydney, Australia • 3000 employees • Educational Services

    Industry

    Educational Services

    Security Incidents

    1

    Western Sydney University, located in Greater Western Sydney, Australia, is a comprehensive institution known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community engagement. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, health, engineering, and the arts. With multiple campuses, Western Sydney University provides a vibrant and inclusive environment, fostering academic excellence and practical learning experiences for its students.

    Security Incidents

    Western Sydney University Breach of May 2024
    Severity Score
    Moderate to Significant

    Type

    Unknown

    Summary

    Western Sydney University experienced a data breach in its Microsoft Office 365 environment, affecting staff and student data. The breach was discovered in January 2024, with the earliest unauthorized access dated back to May 17, 2023, involving SharePoint files and email accounts. The University has taken steps to prevent further access and is working with New South Wales Police and the NSW Information and Privacy Commission on the investigation. Approximately 7,500 individuals have been notified, with no threats or demands made regarding the accessed information; the University has apologize...
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    Severity

    The data breach at Western Sydney University was highly significant, compromising sensitive information of approximately 7,500 individuals, including access to SharePoint files and email accounts. The breach, initially identified in January 2024 but with unauthorized access traced back to May 2023, involved critical infrastructure such as the WSU Solar Car Laboratory. Despite no threats or demands regarding the compromised data, the university is collaborating with New South Wales Police and the NSW Information and Privacy Commission to investigate and mitigate further risks.

    Impact

    The data breach at Western Sydney University affected approximately 7,500 individuals, including both staff and students. Those impacted had their data accessed through compromised Microsoft Office 365 accounts, including email and SharePoint files. The University has taken steps to notify all affected individuals and is working with relevant authorities to manage the situation

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