Data Breach

Lee University Data Breach Investigation

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Lee University Data Breach Investigation
Lee University Data Breach Investigation

Shamis & Gentile P.A., one of the nation's premier class action law firms specializing in data breach cases, is investigating the Lee University data breach.

If you were affected by the data breach, your sensitive personally identifiable information may have been exposed, and you may be eligible for compensation.

About Lee University

Lee University is a private Christian university located in Cleveland, Tennessee. Established in 1918, the university has grown significantly over the past century and is currently one of the largest Christ-centered private institutions in Tennessee. Lee University offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across six schools, including Business, Arts & Sciences, Education, Music, Religion, and Nursing.

The university is situated on a 127-acre campus and enrolls approximately 3,680 students. Lee University emphasizes community engagement, global perspectives, and Christian values. It has been consistently ranked in the "Top Tier" of Best Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.

What was the December 2024 Data Breach?

On December 17, 2024, Lee University discovered a data breach involving sensitive personal information of current and former students and employees. The university discovered unusual activity on its network systems caused by a third-party software vulnerability. After detecting this breach, Lee University immediately secured its network and enlisted cybersecurity experts to investigate the incident.

The investigation revealed that some university data had been downloaded from the institution's systems. Lee University is currently conducting a comprehensive review to determine the full extent of the breach and identify all individuals affected. The university reported the breach to the various states Attorney Generals' offices on March 27, 2025, indicating that at least 3,042 people in Texas were impacted in addition to 139 in New Hampshire.

Information Exposed:

  • Name of individual
  • Social Security Number Information
  • Driver’s License number
  • Government-issued ID number (e.g. passport, state ID card)
  • Financial Information (e.g. account number, credit or debit card number)
  • Medical Information

Lee University has notified affected individuals via U.S. Mail and through a dedicated webpage on their website.

Your Rights and Next Steps

If your personal information was exposed in the Lee University data breach, you have the right to take immediate steps to protect yourself from identity theft and fraud.

First, consider enrolling in the complimentary IDX identity protection services offered by Lee University. These services include credit monitoring, identity restoration services, and identity protection insurance.

Next, carefully monitor your financial accounts and credit reports for any unusual or unauthorized activity. If you notice suspicious activity, promptly notify your financial institution and report the incident to law enforcement.

Additionally, you may consider placing a fraud alert or a security freeze on your credit reports. A fraud alert informs creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts, while a security freeze restricts access to your credit reports entirely, preventing unauthorized credit applications.

Lastly, you may speak with an experienced data breach attorney about your rights and potential compensation.

You May Be Entitled to Compensation

If you received notice that your personal information was exposed in the Lee University data breach, you may be eligible for compensation. Data breaches can lead to serious consequences, including identity theft, financial loss, and emotional distress. Lawyers are ready to help you understand your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

To join a potential lawsuit and learn more about your options, complete the below form. Lawyers are ready to help you take action and protect your rights.

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