LAS VEGAS -- UNLV is investigating how confidential information belonging to 2,000 employees may have slipped out. The personal information may have been exposed three years ago, but the university is just finding out the scope of how large this breach could be.
It's very difficult to get clear answers from UNLV's information technology experts about how they protect confidential data. But 8 News NOW did find out there are some newer measures being taken to protect personal information from inside and outside threats.
From home addresses to Social Security numbers, sensitive information is stored inside UNLV computer servers. UNLA may have had one of its first large data breaches when a recent audit discovered what may have been "unauthorized activity on a university desktop computer dating to 2008."
The computer in question had names and Social Security numbers of around 2,000 employees. Affected employees received word their information may been compromised.
"They sent out a notice a few days ago that there was a concern so we knew ahead of time that it was going on," said Dr. Dale Pehrsson, UNLV associate dean.
UNLV says no student information was compromised. Some students seem resigned to expect that these kinds of breach's happen.
"I'm sure they're doing everything they can. But it seems that not even Sony and big corporations can protect you, so we'll see," said Oscar Quiroz, UNLV civil engineering student.
UNLV says there is no reason to believe outside hackers are targeting campus computers. But beyond financial information, student health and psychological exam information is also collected at the campus Wellness Center. 8 News NOW asked if those computers are on the same network as those with the potential breach.
"We really try not to talk too much about our security at that level," said Lori Temple, UNLV vice provost.
Temple is UNLV's top Internet cop. "It's an interesting challenge to try and stay one step ahead. It's kinda fun, but it is very serious and it's difficult. There's a lot of people that want to get other people's information and not just at universities, everywhere. They're figuring out new and creative ways to do it and we have to figure out new and creative ways to stop it."
Since the potential loss of confidential information, UNLV assigns special identification's that are not linked to Social Security numbers.
