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A UCD Staff member has appeared in court for using malicious software to gain unauthorised access to students’ personal data.
The staff member, who is a male in his 50s, was arrested this morning, 20 March 2026, after searches were carried out at both UCD and his home address. The man has been arrested and charged with over 140 offences.
An Garda Síochána and the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau commenced the investigation after a complaint and information was submitted by UCD in late 2023. The man was previously arrested in May 2025 following analysis of devices found during searches.
Throughout the investigation, An Garda Síochána have identified over 100 victims. These victims had their personal data on the UCD network and personal data held outside of the UCD network unlawfully accessed. An Garda Síochána has said that it has contacted all the victims identified in the attack.
The Director of Public Prosecutions has directed that the suspect be charged with multiple offences. UCD is continuing to engage with An Garda Síochána on the matter.
UCD have been approached for comment on this story.