Brandeis University Data Breach Affects ECSI Services

The April 2024 Data Breach at Brandeis University

On April 4, 2024, Brandeis University discovered a data breach involving sensitive personal information managed by Educational Computer Systems, Inc. (ECSI), a service provider tasked with tax document preparation for the university's current and former students. This incident was promptly reported to the relevant authorities, including the Attorney General's offices in Maine and Massachusetts.

Information Exposed

• Social Security Number

Brandeis University's Response

Upon discovering the breach, Brandeis University took immediate action to address the situation and mitigate any potential damage. The university collaborated with ECSI to secure the breached systems and prevent further unauthorized access. They also engaged Experian, a leading expert in credit and identity monitoring services, to provide affected individuals with two years of complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services. This proactive response aims to safeguard the affected individuals against potential identity theft and financial fraud.

Steps to Take if You Are Affected

If you believe your information might have been compromised in this breach, it is crucial to act swiftly to protect your identity and financial health:

1. Enroll in Credit Monitoring: Take advantage of the free credit monitoring service offered by Experian. You can enroll using the unique activation code provided in the notice to consumers.
2. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your financial statements and credit reports for any unauthorized activity. Immediately report any suspicious transactions to your financial institution.
3. Place a Fraud Alert: Consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports, which makes it harder for identity thieves to open accounts in your name. This can be done by contacting any one of the major credit bureaus.
4. Consider a Security Freeze: A more severe option is to place a security freeze on your credit reports, which prevents creditors from accessing your credit report entirely. This measure can protect against identity theft, although it may delay or interfere with timely approval of any subsequent credit applications you make.
5. Report to Authorities: If you suspect identity theft, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at FTC Identity Theft or call (877) IDTHEFT (438-4338). Additionally, report suspected tax fraud to the Internal Revenue Service at IRS Tax Fraud.

About Brandeis University

Brandeis University is a prestigious private research university located in Waltham, Massachusetts. Named after the distinguished U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis Brandeis, the university is known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and its commitment to teaching and research excellence.

For further details on the breach, you can access the official disclosures on the Maine Attorney General's website and the Massachusetts Attorney General's website.

Remember, taking the steps outlined above can significantly reduce the risk of identity theft and help maintain your financial security following this unfortunate incident.