University of Florida reports computer breach

updated 10:51 a.m. ET Feb. 19, 2009

GAINESVILLE, Florida - University of Florida officials say an intruder has gained access to a computer system that contained personal information for more than 97,000 people.

The files included the names and Social Security numbers of students, faculty and staff who used the "Grove" computer system between 1996 and 2009.

The breach was discovered Jan. 14 during a systems review. The system was immediately shut down, and an investigation began. The investigation confirmed unauthorized access to the system, but it could not determine if files containing private information were accessed.

The university is attempting to contact those whose files may have been accessed, but it has no contact information for more than 5,000 people.

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