University of Oregon Laptop Stolen with Disabled Youth Records & Social Security Numbers

A laptop containing an undisclosed number of records on youths involoved in the Youth Transition Program (YTP) was stolen from a University of Oregon employee. In the press release from the University it is stated that “The theft appeared to be random and the computer was password protected,” again we all know how easy it is to bypass operating level passwords. Speculation as to whether a theft or not should not provide victims any protection, the data should have been encrypted, or provided additional layers of security.

Participants who were involved with the YTP program from 2004 to 2007 are urged to monitor their financial accounts and credit reports for suspicious activity. Any suspected identity theft should be reported to law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Trade Commission. Again the burden is placed on the victims.