A data security breach from May of this year may include information on Otago Alumni. The breach has since been contained following Blackbaud's negotiation and ransom settlement with "the attacker".
According to an email sent to Otago Alumni, Blackbaud (not to be confused with Blackboard), the software that manages alumni and fundraising engagement, had a "data security breach involving information on alumni, donors and related groups from universities and charities around the world."
Otago is still investigating whether or not Otago Alumni data was involved. They are specfically looking into a file that included information on a "small number" of Otago Alumni who were based in the USA in 2014.
It has been confirmed that "no passwords, bank details or credit card details were included in the potential breach."
Blackbaud believe "the breach has been contained and data are no longer at risk" following a negotiation and ransom settlement with the attacker.
Otago Uni is "confident that the incident has been successfully resolved, however we urge you to remain vigilant for any unusual activity."
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this incident, contact otagoalumni@otago.ac.nz