Saint Xavier University
Data Breach Class Action Lawsuit

Posted: November 1, 2024 -- Attention, victims of the Saint Xavier University data breach.

Abington Cole + Ellery is investigating the data breach recently announced by Saint Xavier University.

Saint Xavier University Data Breach Summary:

Approximately 212,000 individuals were affected by the Saint Xavier University data breach.

Breached data may include, but is not necessarily limited to: names, Social Security numbers, and financial account data.

On July 21, 2023, Saint Xavier University (SXU) identified potential suspicious activity within certain computer systems. In response, SXU claims it acted to contain the activity, verify system security, and engaged external cybersecurity specialists to lead an in-depth investigation into the nature, scope, and impact of the incident. This investigation revealed that an unauthorized entity accessed and downloaded specific files stored on a limited number of SXU systems between June 29 and July 18, 2023. Following this discovery, SXU claims it conducted a detailed review of the affected data to identify the types of information involved and assess any notification requirements.

To facilitate the notification process, SXU claims it enhanced address information and aligned records, completing these steps by August 26, 2024. Following this completion, SXU claims to have initiated prompt notification of affected individuals, beginning around October 30, 2024. Upon identifying the incident, SXU moved to investigate and mitigate the situation, secure its systems, and identify individuals potentially impacted. The institution also notified federal law enforcement of the incident and continues to review and enhance data protection policies, implementing additional technical and administrative measures and employee training to strengthen security practices.

As a result of the data breach, Saint Xavier University is offering 12 to 24 months of free credit monitoring and/or identity theft protection services to some affected individuals.

Additional information about the Saint Xavier University data breach may be found here: Saint Xavier University Data Breach Notification (Maine), and here: Saint Xavier University Notice of Data Security Event (News Release).

About Saint Xavier University:

In 1846, the Sisters of Mercy founded Saint Xavier University in Chicago, Illinois. This institution marked the beginning of higher education connected to the Catholic Church in Chicago and initiated the Mercy tradition in learning worldwide. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as arts, sciences, nursing, and business.

According to Saint Xavier University, the mission focuses on educating individuals to seek truth, engage in critical thought, communicate, and serve to uphold dignity and support society. Rooted in the Catholic Church and the legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, the university educates students from various backgrounds, providing a foundation in the arts and professions.

In 2021, Saint Xavier University observed 175 years since its founding, reaching a milestone in its history. Over time, the university has expanded programs and facilities to meet the changing needs of students and the community. Developments include the establishment of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences and the introduction of student support services.

The Saint Xavier University Website may have additional information about or provide periodic updates regarding the data breach.

For more information about steps you can take to possibly reduce the chances harm arising from a data breach, please review the following article: What are some steps you can take if you've been the victim of a data breach?

If you believe you are a victim of the Saint Xavier University data breach, and if you would like to volunteer to serve as a class representative in a class action lawsuit regarding this data breach, please submit your information via the form on this webpage. This website is not associated with nor authorized by Saint Xavier University or any affiliated entities. If you have received any other data breach notifications, you may to review Abington Cole + Ellery's current list of data breach investigations.