Wilkes University Data Breach Affects 27,632 Students

Wilkes University experienced a data breach affecting at least 27,632 individuals. An investigation took place and on Sept. 22, 2025 it was determined that a cybercriminal gained access to sensitive information between Jan. 25, 2025 and Jan. 26, 2025.

The cybersecurity incident both personally identifiable information (PII) and protected health information (PHI) belonging to current and former students. Exposed information included names, addresses, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, driver's license or state ID numbers, student ID numbers, financial account number, financial aid information, health insurance policy number and medical alert information.

The university began notifying affected individuals by mail on Oct. 8, 2025 and published a Data Security Incident Notice on its website. Impacted students includes 24 in Maine, 159 Massachusetts residents and 290 in Texas.

Wilkes University also disclosed the cyberattack to the Maine Attorney General on Oct. 8, 2025m the Massachusetts Attorney General's office and the Texas Attorney General on Oct. 9, 2025, and the Vermont Attorney General on Oct. 13th.

Wilkes University's response

In addition to required state and federal disclosures, the university is offering individuals with compromised Social Security numbers 12 months of free TransUnion Cyberscout credit monitoring and identity theft prevention services.

If you receive notice from Wilkes University about this data breach, you may want to:

• Sign up for the free credit monitoring and identity theft prevention services, offered by the university.
• Monitor your credit reports and financial accounts for any unusual activity.
• Be alert for phishing emails or phone calls that may use your exposed information.
• Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with major credit bureaus.

Wilkes University has also established a confidential response line for students and staff with questions at 833-855-4189, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern time.