Missouri Western State University is sending a notice to affected individuals that a computer hard disk drive containing confidential data, including names and Social Security numbers, was temporarily out of the university’s possession. The university does not believe the information has been misused in any way.
A hard disk drive was inadvertently included in a surplus computer sold through the State of Missouri Agency for Surplus Property in December. Before selling surplus computers, Missouri Western routinely removes and destroys hard drives. The university has improved its surplus procedure to avoid similar incidents in the future.
The buyer discovered the hard disk drive on Jan. 7 and contacted Missouri Western on Jan. 8. At the university’s request, the hard drive was returned by overnight delivery and was back in Missouri Western’s possession Jan. 9. The buyer assured Missouri Western that data from the hard disk drive was not copied or transmitted in any way.
Missouri Western is sending a notification letter to approximately 3,000 students recruited by the university between 2005 and 2009.
“Missouri Western State University makes every effort to ensure confidential information is secure,” said Cale Fessler, vice president for financial planning and administration. “We sincerely apologize for this incident. Missouri Western does not believe the information has been misused in any way.”
Missouri Western State University is a comprehensive regional university providing a blend of traditional liberal arts and professional degree programs. The university offers student-centered, high quality instruction that focuses on experience-based learning, community service, and state-of-the-art technology. Missouri Western is located in St. Joseph, Mo., and is committed to the educational, economic, cultural and social development of the region it serves. Visit www.missouriwestern.edu.