GTU students complain of Data Breach: Photo, ID proofs leaked after Mock Test

Gujarat Technological University (GTU) conducted mock tests for its students on July 28. Post which, students complained of massive data leaks from the official website of the university.

GTU administration headquartered in Chandkheda filed a complaint with the Cyber Crime branch of police, alleging identity proofs including photographs of students were leaked from the official website.

Earlier it was announced, GTU will hold offline exams for UG, Diploma and PG students. While the new schedule suggests online exams to commence from July 30 since postponed from July 2. 

Check: GTU Admissions 2020

The actual summer examinations are to begin later. As per latest updates, GTU allowed students to choose from three exam dates format by July 23. 

On July 29, 2020, GTU conveyed through SMS to 1900 students that another mock test has been scheduled. This time about 1275 students had taken the exams.

On July 30, 2020, the university was informed about the data leak and the updates arrived from social media. Sooner, GTU investigated the matter with the exam conducting agency to find that information was disclosed while students were taking mock tests on July 29.

Following this, the university approached the city’s cybercrime branch for complaining against the data breach executed by unknown individuals. 

Check: GTU Results 2020

To raise concerns in this matter, students took to twitter to protest, demanding an immediate response from the university. Students claimed, “Student's important private data is compromised and leaked. 

Govt and SC should intervene immediately and Provide compensation to students. Everyone knew if we do online exams like this without proper infrastructure it can happen.”

While talking to the media, students informed ID proofs like photographs and aadhaar cards were exposed to the public for quite some time from the university’s website until GTU removed the link.