Threat Management, Malware, Vulnerability Management

Canadian college student arrested for hacking school network

A student at the University of Alberta was arrested for inserting malware into the school's network affecting 304 computers and potentially compromising the passwords of about 3,300 students, faculty and staff.

Yibin Xu, 19, was charged with cybercrimes including mischief in relation to computer data, unauthorized use of computer services, fraudulently intercepting functions of a computer system and use of a computer system with intent to commit an offense, according to the Edmonton Police Cybercrimes Investigation Unit.

According to CBC News, Gordie Mah, the university's CISO, said the malware was designed to find the school's primary password. The attacks took place between Nov. 18 and Dec. 8. Those affected were immediately informed of the problem, but the news was held back from the general public until the police investigation concluded on Jan. 5.

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