Cornell probes theft of school computer with personal information; thousands could be affected

Cornell probes loss of personal information

ITHACA, N.Y. — Cornell University officials are investigating the theft of a school computer that may have compromised the personal information of thousands of current and former students, faculty and staff.

University spokesman Simeon Moss is confirming the security breach, but declines to give any other information. He says Tuesday the university is trying to put together a full accounting of the circumstances and damage before commenting.

An e-mail sent to the university community on Friday by Auditor Michael Dickinson says there have been no reports of misuse of the information, which included Social Security numbers.

The e-mail says Cornell will provide fraud counseling and credit monitoring services at the university’s expense to anyone affected by the breach.