BlackburnNews.com has learned personal information of staff members at the Greater Essex County District School Board has been accessed in a possible data breach.
An email that was sent out to staff was sent to BlackburnNews.com anonymously. It says information such as the names, dates of birth, social security number and direct deposit information of staff members was made accessible through the internal computer network.
The email states that "the full scope of information that was potentially vulnerable is still undergoing investigation."
A student discovered and reported the data breach to staff Monday morning. At least three students were aware of the system vulnerability, but it is believed none of the students copied or shared the information.
It is believed the software issue was rectified and access to the information is no longer available. However, the school board has contacted the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario to notify them of the breach. Police have also been notified.
Board spokesman, Scott Scantlebury responded to an inquiry from BlackburnNews.com late Monday night to say "the board has no comment. It is a personnel matter with privacy issues."