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... The stolen data, which was reviewed and reported on by Bloomberg News, contains 1.6 gigabytes of information representing approximately 2.5 million applications dating back decades, according to the person claiming responsibility for the June hack.

The compromised information includes university-issued identification numbers, citizenship status, application decisions, and academic programs to which individuals applied. Bloomberg verified the accuracy of the data by checking information from eight Columbia students and alumni who applied between 2019 and 2024.

A Columbia University representative acknowledged that "initial indications" confirm data was stolen, though the full extent of the breach remains under investigation. The university stated that determining the complete scope could take weeks to months, after which they will identify who needs to be notified. ...