MARLTON, N.J. - Jan. 26, 2022 - PRLog -- Console & Associates, P.C. is investigating the recent Midland University data breach with the intention of determining whether those consumers impacted by the breach have any legal remedies against the institution. If evidence emerges that Midland University was negligent in its storage of sensitive consumer data, the institution may be financially liable through a data breach class action lawsuit.

This is not the first data breach making headlines in recent months. However, few consumers understand the risks these cybersecurity events pose. A data breach occurs when an unauthorized party gains access to an organization's computer networks, usually with the intent of obtaining consumer data. While there are many ways in which hackers or other criminal actors can orchestrate a data breach, they are often the result of a person hacking into an institution's network, either removing data or installing harmful software on the network. In the case of the Midland University breach, it appears as though an unauthorized person installed malware, or "malicious software," on the institution's network.

News of the Midland University data breach is very recent, and the investigation is still in its early stages. However, the breach raises legitimate concerns about Midland University's efforts to keep consumer data secure. If it turns out that Midland University failed to implement the proper security measures designed to protect consumer privacy, those whose information was compromised may be eligible for financial compensation.

Attorney Richard Console explains, "It's easy to place all the blame for a data breach on the person who hacks into an organization's system; however, this ignores the legal and moral obligation that these companies owe to customers. When someone gives an organization their information, they trust that the organization will ensure the information remains private—and out of the hands of criminals. While protecting consumer data requires an organization to undergo some effort and expense, in our current environment of widespread hacking, this is a cost of doing business that all organizations must take seriously."

According to Midland University, on January 18, 2021, the organization first noticed its systems were the target of a malware attack and that certain files were encrypted as a result. In response, Midland University secured its systems, restored access, and launched an investigation to determine what happened and which information was affected. This investigation confirmed that an unknown actor gained access to certain files on January 18, 2021, and downloaded some of those files. These files contained the personal information of 13,716 individuals, including their:

• Full names,
• Addresses,
• Driver's license numbers,
• State identification numbers, and
• Social Security numbers.

1. Carefully review the letter sent by Midland University;
2. Retain a copy of the data breach notification letter;
3. Enroll in the free credit monitoring service provided by Midland University;
4. Change all passwords and security questions to online accounts;
5. Frequently review all credit card and bank account statements for any signs of fraud or unauthorized activity;
6. Monitor credit reports for any unexpected changes or signs of identity theft;
7. Contact a credit bureau to request a temporary fraud alert; and
8. Notify all banks and credit card companies of the data breach.