College of the Desert (COD) is providing free credit monitoring services for victims of a malware attack, which hit its online network last summer and exposed the personal data of approximately 800 people.
In a recent news release, the Palm Desert community college also said a hotline has been established to assist those who may have suffered as a result of the malware attack. Potential victims are being notified, even though the college has no evidence at this point that the breach led to attempted or actual misuse of personal information.
“College of the Desert takes very seriously the privacy of information in our care," Superintendent/President Martha Garcia said in the news release. "If you receive a letter stating you were impacted and have questions, please reach out using the contact information in the letter. We also encourage you to take advantage of the free credit monitoring service that is available.”
According to the news release, the malware invasion of the school's online network lasted approximately two weeks and, once discovered, led to an investigation that involved local authorities, the FBI and third-party forensic experts working to stop the breach.
As many as 800 people had their personal data compromised, which may have resulted in unauthorized access to their information.
Those impacted by the cyberattack will receive a formal notification letter with further steps they can take to safeguard their personal data.
Another resource mentioned in the release is the hotline established to answer questions for those who may be impacted. The hotline can be reached at 800-405-6108.