‍

If you're connected to Dartmouth College, recent news of a data breach might have you on edge. The Clop extortion gang exploited a vulnerability in the Oracle E-Business Suite, potentially leaking sensitive information like Social Security numbers and financial account details of many individuals. This post is your guide to understanding what happened, the possible risks, and what you should do next to protect yourself.

‍

What Datapoints Were Leaked?

‍

When the Dartmouth College data breach hit the headlines, the most pressing question was: what exactly got exposed? According to details disclosed by the college and cybersecurity experts, the breach targeted Dartmouth’s Oracle E-Business Suite, a system used for managing sensitive business and personal data. The attackers, identified as the Clop extortion gang, took advantage of a vulnerability that let them access a wide range of confidential information.

‍

Here’s what was potentially exposed:

‍

• Social Security Numbers: One of the most sensitive pieces of data. With this, criminals can open credit lines, commit tax fraud, or even steal identities.

• Financial Account Details: This includes bank account numbers, direct deposit information, and any financial records managed by the college for employees or vendors.

• Names and Addresses: Full names, home addresses, and possibly phone numbers—enough for identity thieves to stitch together a detailed profile.

• Dates of Birth: When paired with other data, this becomes a key that unlocks additional personal records.

• Employee and Student Records: For many, this breach wasn’t just about financial risk—it may have included employment details, student information, and possibly benefits data.

‍

The impact is not minor. Reports suggest that thousands of individuals connected to Dartmouth—students, faculty, staff, and possibly vendors—were affected. Each person whose data passed through the Oracle E-Business Suite during the breach window could be at risk.

‍

The sensitive nature and volume of data involved make this breach especially concerning. If your information was in Dartmouth’s systems, it’s wise to assume your personal and financial details could be floating around in criminal circles.

‍

Should You Be Worried?

‍

When news of a data breach hits, worry is a natural reaction. But what’s really at stake for you? Let’s break down the actual risks and why this isn’t something you can brush off.

‍

The Real Dangers of a Data Breach

‍

A data breach isn’t just about someone grabbing a list of emails. The fallout can be personal and long-lasting. Here’s what’s truly at risk:

‍

• Identity Theft: Hackers often use stolen information—like Social Security numbers, birth dates, or addresses—to impersonate you. They might open credit cards, take out loans, or even file fake tax returns in your name.

• Financial Fraud: If banking details, payment information, or even basic personal data are exposed, criminals can drain accounts, make unauthorized purchases, or set up new accounts you know nothing about.

• Phishing Attacks: With enough personal details, attackers can craft convincing emails or texts, tricking you into handing over even more information or clicking malicious links.

‍

These aren’t just hypotheticals. The Clop extortion gang, for example, has a track record of targeting institutions like Dartmouth College, leaking sensitive information, and demanding payment for silence. This isn’t their first rodeo—they’ve previously hit other universities, including Harvard, causing widespread fear and forcing thousands to stay on high alert for fraud.

‍

Learning from Other High-Profile Breaches

‍

When Harvard University experienced a breach, the aftermath was messy. Students and staff faced months of uncertainty, with personal data circulating on the dark web. Many had to freeze credit, monitor bank accounts, and stay vigilant for phishing emails pretending to be from trusted sources.

‍

Dartmouth College’s situation isn’t any less serious. Early reports indicate that data was not just stolen, but actively weaponized by cybercriminals. The Clop gang is notorious for extortion tactics, meaning if your data was caught up in this, you could be at risk of targeted scams and identity theft for years to come.

‍

Should You Panic?

‍

Short answer: don’t panic, but don’t ignore it. A breach like this can have real consequences, but there are practical steps you can take. Services like Cloaked can help by shielding your personal information and giving you control over what you share online. Using privacy tools can dramatically lower the risk of identity theft and fraud by making your details harder to exploit.

‍

Bottom line: If your data was part of the breach, your best move is to stay alert and take action quickly. The risks are real, but being prepared makes a world of difference.

‍

What Should Be Your Next Steps?

‍

A data breach can leave anyone feeling exposed and anxious. If your information has been compromised, a well-structured response plan can make all the difference. Here’s how to take control and protect yourself from further harm.

‍

1. Confirm the Breach

‍

• Check official notifications from Dartmouth College or any organization involved. Don’t rely on rumors or social media chatter—verify the facts.

• Identify what information was leaked. Was it just your email, or did it include Social Security numbers, financial data, or medical records?

‍

2. Change Your Passwords—All of Them

‍

• Update passwords immediately for all affected accounts. Make sure new passwords are strong and unique—no birthdays, pet names, or “123456.”

• Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible. This adds an extra layer of defense.

‍

3. Monitor Your Financial Accounts

‍

• Check bank and credit card statements for unfamiliar activity. Even small charges can be a warning sign.

• Set up alerts with your bank or credit card provider to get instant notifications of suspicious transactions.

‍

4. Freeze Your Credit

‍

• Contact the major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to freeze your credit. This prevents new accounts from being opened in your name without your consent.

• Regularly review your credit reports for any unusual activity.

‍

5. Beware of Phishing

‍

• Watch for suspicious emails, texts, or calls pretending to be from Dartmouth or other institutions. Don’t click on unfamiliar links or download attachments from unknown sources.

• Verify requests for personal information—legitimate organizations won’t ask for sensitive data over email or phone.

‍

6. Use Identity Protection Tools

‍

• Consider services like Cloaked for added peace of mind. Cloaked helps by masking your personal details, making it much harder for criminals to misuse your information. With features such as encrypted virtual identities and secure password management, Cloaked gives you more control over what you share online.

‍

7. Report and Document Everything

‍

• File a report with the relevant authorities (such as the FTC) if you suspect identity theft.

• Keep a detailed record of every step you take, including calls, emails, and any communications with Dartmouth or credit agencies.

‍

8. Stay Informed

‍

• Sign up for official updates from Dartmouth or other involved organizations. Information can change quickly, and staying updated helps you respond fast.

‍

Taking these steps will help you regain control after a breach and reduce your risk of further harm. Stay alert, act quickly, and protect what matters most—your identity.

‍