Stanford University reported last week that a university laptop that contained personal data on as many as 72,000 current and former employees was stolen. The university did not reveal the kinds of personal information in the machine. But it is advising current and former employees to take steps to safeguard their identities, including getting a free credit report.
Randy Livingston, Stanford’s vice president for business affairs and chief financial officer, stated in a letter to those affected that he believes the thief was after the machine itself, not any data contained in it. He is withholding details about the theft while the case is under investigation. Mr. Livingston will lead a task force to review Stanford’s policies and procedures for securing data.
Stolen laptops are a growing problem for colleges and universities as they strive to secure the personal data of students, alumni, and faculty and staff members. In April a SunGard consultant reported his laptop stolen. It contained confidential data on tens of thousands of current and former students on at least 20 campuses across the country.—Andrea L. Foster
Developing online and blended learning programs requires research and collaboration. Learn how top technology companies are partnering with campuses across the country to advance online learning as it becomes an increasingly important aspect of higher education.