UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The investigation of the “Zoom-bombing” that occurred Jan. 27 during a Black Caucus portion of Penn State’s Spring Virtual Student Involvement Fair is ongoing. University Police has been consulting with internal and external resources, including the Office of Information Security, FBI and the Centre County District Attorney’s Office. Ethnic intimidation, harassment, disorderly conduct and unlawful use of a computer are some of the criminal charges that individuals who are identified could face.
Investigations that involve digital forensic evidence can be lengthy, but police want the community to know that they are actively investigating this crime with the full resources of University Police and Public Safety (UPPS). Unfortunately, this Zoom attack on underrepresented communities is one among a number of similar incidents targeting universities across the nation. At this time there are no indications that the incident involved people connected to the Penn State community.
Police applauded the victims for reporting this crime immediately and for taking steps to preserve crucial evidence, which has significantly supported the investigation. Student Affairs leaders, as well as those within Educational Equity, have reached out directly to the students impacted, providing counseling services for those in need.
Additionally, police have offered support through its Victim Services unit and provided the group with an investigative update earlier this week. The diversity, equity and inclusion director within UPPS also reached out to Black Caucus leaders to offer time to discuss and answer any questions its members may have, and to find ways to further support them during this difficult time.
Anyone with additional information regarding this incident should contact University Police at 814-863-1111 or submit a tip online: https://www.police.psu.edu/report-crime.