Harvard Database Hacked In New Cyberattack Targeting Ivy League

Harvard University confirmed that one of its major databases was accessed by an unauthorized person after a phone phishing attack earlier this week. The breach exposed personal information belonging to alumni, donors, some students, and faculty members. The university said the attack took place on Tuesday and involved data related to fundraising and alumni engagement activities.

According to Harvard officials, the compromised database included contact details, donation records, and other related information. The university said the attacker did not gain access to academic systems or financial accounts, but the exposed personal data still poses a serious concern for thousands of individuals connected to Harvard.

Harvard, the oldest and wealthiest university in the United States, routinely raises more than a billion dollars each year. This incident marks the second cybersecurity investigation the university has launched in 2025. In October, Harvard looked into reports that its data was affected during a large hacking operation targeting users of a major software company.

Tim Bailey, the director of communications for Harvard University Information Technology, said the university acted immediately after discovering the breach. He stated that access was removed quickly, and cybersecurity teams were brought in to strengthen the system. The university is also cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

Harvard is not the only top US university dealing with cyberattacks. In recent months, several Ivy League schools have reported similar incidents. Princeton University confirmed that one of its databases containing information about alumni, donors, students, and community members was compromised on November 15. Earlier, the University of Pennsylvania found that systems connected to alumni and development activities were breached on October 31.

Columbia University also reported a major cybersecurity incident in June, when personal information belonging to nearly 870,000 people—including students and applicants—was exposed.

Cybersecurity experts say American universities remain attractive targets due to the amount of personal and financial information they store. With recent attacks hitting multiple prestigious institutions, there is growing pressure on universities to strengthen digital security and protect sensitive data more effectively.