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University of Hawaiʻi Cancer Center Ransomware Breach Exposes Data of Nearly 1.2 Million People

A class-action inquiry follows UH's disclosure that the breach was confined to research servers.

Overview

  • UH confirms an August 31, 2025 ransomware attack on its Epidemiology Division led to data theft and extensive system encryption.
  • Records potentially exposed include names, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, voter registration data, and limited research and health information.
  • The impacted population comprises 87,493 Multiethnic Cohort Study participants and roughly 1.15 million individuals listed in legacy state driver’s license and voter registration files.
  • Officials say they obtained a decryption tool and assurances of data destruction from the threat actors, while reports differ on whether a ransom was paid.
  • Notifications began in late February with 12 months of free credit monitoring offered, and investigators from law enforcement and external cybersecurity firms remain engaged.