A class action lawsuit has emerged against Monroe University. The plaintiff, Rosemary Maysonet, claims the university mishandled sensitive personal and health information, resulting in a significant data breach.
According to the lawsuit, between December 9 and December 23, 2024, cybercriminals accessed Monroe University’s computer systems. They reportedly acquired files that contained critical data such as names, Social Security numbers, and financial details.
Maysonet argues that the university knew it was vulnerable to attacks but failed to implement adequate security measures. This negligence led to the exposure of personal information for over 320,000 individuals, putting them at risk for identity theft and fraud.
One critical issue highlighted in the lawsuit is the university’s delay in notifying affected individuals. Maysonet asserts that the university did not inform them until January 2, 2026—well after the breach occurred. This delay prevented students and applicants from taking essential steps to safeguard their identities.
The lawsuit alleges that Monroe University’s inaction could have severe long-term implications, with stolen data likely circulating among criminals for years. Maysonet, personally affected by the breach, has invested considerable time in monitoring her accounts and managing potential fraudulent activity. She’s seeking damages and a commitment from the university to enhance data protection.
This case isn’t isolated. The University of Phoenix faced similar allegations following a breach in August 2025, which affected millions of students. With data breaches increasingly common, expert opinions stress the need for universities to prioritize cybersecurity measures. According to a recent report by Cybersecurity Ventures, cybercrime damages are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, underlining the urgency of this issue.
The impact of such breaches is profound. A June 2023 survey by the Identity Theft Resource Center reported that 1 in 4 Americans has experienced some form of identity theft, demonstrating the real threat these incidents pose. Victims often face not just financial loss but also emotional distress as they navigate the aftermath.
As the Monroe case unfolds, it underlines the importance of robust data security and timely communication from organizations. Maysonet’s suit could influence how universities manage sensitive information and respond to breaches in the future.
For more insights on class action lawsuits and protections against data breaches, check out [The Federal Trade Commission](https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/how-keep-your-personal-information-secure) for expert advice.
Source link
data breach,Featured News
