Lincoln University Data Breach Lawsuit Investigation
Updated:
Lincoln University has disclosed a cybersecurity incident that compromised certain student and employee records. If you received a breach notice, you may be entitled to no-cost credit monitoring and potential compensation. Use the information below to understand what happened and how to protect yourself.
Key Facts About the Lincoln University Data Breach
- Incident discovered: October 9, 2024
- Unauthorized activity: Disruption to computer network; data removed by an external actor
- Personal data identified: First and last names + Social Security numbers
- Scope review completed: May 2, 2025
- Contact-information match finished: September 22, 2025
- Consumer notices mailed: October 7, 2025
- Report filed with CA Attorney General: October 21, 2025
What Happened
According to Lincoln University’s notice to regulators, the institution detected a network disruption on October 9, 2024. Cyber-incident response professionals were engaged immediately, and the University secured its systems while the investigation proceeded. The review later confirmed that an unauthorized actor had removed data from the network. On May 2, 2025, the institution determined that some of the stolen files contained personal information. A subsequent effort to verify up-to-date mailing addresses concluded on September 22, 2025, enabling individual notifications to be sent beginning October 7, 2025.
Information Involved
The files confirmed to be exposed contained the following data elements:
- First and last name
- Social Security number
Lincoln University’s Response
Lincoln University reports that it:
- Secured affected systems immediately after discovery
- Engaged external cyber-incident response experts
- Notified federal law-enforcement authorities
- Is reviewing and enhancing existing security controls
- Is offering affected individuals complimentary Single-Bureau Credit Monitoring, Credit Reports, and Credit Score services for 12 months through HaystackID
- Established a dedicated call center staffed by trained representatives to answer questions and assist with enrollment
Your Next Steps
- Enroll in the free monitoring service. Follow the instructions provided in your mailed notice to activate HaystackID protection.
- Monitor credit reports and account statements. Look for unfamiliar activity and report any discrepancies immediately.
- File reports as needed. If you detect fraud, contact your financial institutions, law enforcement, your state Attorney General, or the Federal Trade Commission.
- Explore legal options. Data breach laws allow affected individuals to seek monetary relief. Complete the evaluation form on this page to discuss your rights.
Company Overview
- Website: https://www.lincoln.edu/
- Headquarters: 1570 Baltimore Pike, Lincoln University, PA, United States
- Industry: Higher Education
- Year founded: 1854
- Official social media:
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Lincoln University data breach?
An unauthorized actor accessed the University’s network on October 9, 2024 and removed data containing personal information. The breach was confirmed after an internal investigation.
What personal data of Lincoln University students or staff was exposed?
The compromised files contained individuals’ first and last names along with their Social Security numbers.
Is Lincoln University offering free credit monitoring?
Yes. Impacted individuals can enroll in 12 months of Single-Bureau Credit Monitoring, Reports, and Scores through HaystackID at no cost.
How do I sign up for Lincoln University’s identity-protection services?
Your mailed notice includes an enrollment code and step-by-step instructions. A dedicated call center is also available to assist.
Can I join a Lincoln University data breach lawsuit?
Possibly. Data-breach statutes provide remedies when negligence leads to exposure of sensitive information. Complete the confidential case review form to learn more about your rights.