Jim Harbaugh Joins Lawsuit Over Hacking Allegations Against Ex-Assistant: What It Means for the NFL

DETROIT (AP) — NFL coach Jim Harbaugh has been named in a lawsuit against the University of Michigan and former assistant coach Matt Weiss. Weiss is accused of illegally accessing the computer accounts of college athletes to find intimate photos.

The lawsuit claims that Harbaugh and others were aware of Weiss viewing private information back in December 2022. Despite this knowledge, they allowed him to continue working during a national playoff game shortly after. Michigan’s athletic director, Warde Manuel, was also added to the lawsuit in federal court.

Parker Stinar, the lead attorney, expressed concern that the university’s slow response suggested that student safety was not a priority. He emphasized that proper oversight could have protected students from individuals like Weiss.

Weiss faces charges of identity theft and unauthorized computer access, impacting over 2,000 athletes and hundreds more. He has pleaded not guilty. The indictment highlights that Weiss sought private images, mainly of women, during his tenure from 2015 to 2023.

The lawsuit indicates that staff saw Weiss accessing confidential data at the football team’s headquarters, Schembechler Hall, just days before the playoff game. He was fired in January 2023 while an investigation was underway.

Earlier this year, Harbaugh claimed he was unaware of Weiss’s issues until after the playoff game, calling the allegations “shocking.” Weiss previously worked with Harbaugh’s brother, John, on the Baltimore Ravens’ coaching staff before joining Michigan in 2021.

Following the investigation, authorities discovered thousands of intimate photos and videos on Weiss’s devices. This situation raises crucial discussions about athlete privacy and the responsibilities of coaches and institutions.

As colleges and universities face mounting scrutiny over athlete safety and well-being, this case highlights the need for stricter oversight. According to a recent survey by the Association for College Athletics, nearly 70% of athletes reported concerns about privacy and data security.

The growing trend of discussing athlete rights on social media indicates a shift in public perception, with many calling for accountability and transparency from educational institutions. As this case unfolds, it could set new precedents for college athletics and athlete protections.

For additional context on athlete privacy issues, you can refer to this report from the NCAA.

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