OHIO COMPUTERS STOLEN FROM KENT STATE UNIVERSITYAP Wire | 10/18/2005 | ACLU investigating computer theft at Kent StatePosted on Tue, Oct. 18, 2005


ACLU investigating computer theft at Kent State

Associated Press


KENT, Ohio - The American Civil Liberties Union is investigating two recent computer thefts at Kent State University to try to determine how dedicated the school is to protecting students' identities.

A laptop with Social Security numbers for about 1,400 employees was stolen in June. Five desktop computers that contained students' names, Social Security numbers and grades were taken in August.

"With identity theft becoming a widespread problem and personal information so easy to obtain through advanced technology, the university must make greater efforts to ensure that students and faculty retain their privacy," said Jeff Gamso, legal director of ALCU-Ohio.

The university is studying options other than Social Security numbers for identifying students, but KSU spokesman Ron Kirksey said the university often has such information for students who apply for federal financial aid.

KSU officials alerted students and employees after the thefts and suggested measures for preventing identity theft.

Officials have not seen evidence that any of the information has been used, Kirksey said.