SIU Data Breach: Addresses and Social Security Numbers Exposed

Southern Illinois University, a public multi-campus university system in Illinois, disclosed a data breach that occurred in 2025, so far impacting 1,597 Texas residents and 23 Vermont residents.

Southern Illinois University experienced a data breach that exposed sensitive information. The breach occured between July 10, 2025, and August. 16, 2025, when an unauthorized user gained access to files belonging to the university.

The university did not discover the breach until on or about July 24, 2026.

The types of personal information exposed in the breach included names, addresses and Social Security numbers.

The breach was additionally reported to the California Attorney General. The university notified affected individuals by U.S. Mail.

Southern Illinois University's response to the breach

Southern Illinois University set up a dedicated toll-free response line for questions about the incident. The line is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., except holidays.

The university is also offering a credit monitoring service to affected individuals. Information on how to enroll is provided in the individual's notification letter.