Over 18 Crore Facebook, Instagram & Apple Passwords Leaked Online: Report
In a shocking revelation, cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler has disclosed that over 18.4 crore account credentials, including login information and passwords, have been leaked online. The leaked credentials belong to accounts on government portals, bank and financial sites, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Microsoft, Apple, and Google. The alarming news has sent shockwaves across the globe, leaving users worried about the safety and security of their personal data.
According to the report, the file containing the credentials is not even password-protected, making it easily accessible to anyone who comes across it. This mass data breach is a stark reminder of the importance of password security and the need for users to be vigilant in protecting their online identities.
The leaked credentials are a treasure trove for hackers, who can use them to gain unauthorized access to users’ accounts and steal sensitive information such as financial details, personal data, and confidential communication. For users, this means that their online security is at risk, and they need to take immediate action to prevent potential breaches.
The affected platforms and services include some of the most popular online services in the world. Facebook, with over 2.7 billion monthly active users, is one of the most popular social media platforms, and the leak of its credentials is a major concern. Instagram, owned by Facebook, is another popular platform that has been affected. Apple, the tech giant behind the iPhone and Mac operating systems, is also among the affected companies.
Microsoft, Google, and Snapchat are other major companies that have been affected by the breach. Microsoft’s Azure cloud computing platform, Google’s Gmail and Google Drive services, and Snapchat’s messaging app are all vulnerable to potential breaches. Government portals and bank and financial sites have also been compromised, making it possible for hackers to access sensitive financial information and confidential government data.
The extent of the breach is alarming, with over 18.4 crore account credentials leaked online. This is a staggering number, and it’s clear that the impact of this breach will be felt for a long time. The fact that the file containing the credentials is not even password-protected is a major concern, as it makes it easy for hackers to access the information.
The reasons behind the breach are not yet clear, but it’s believed that the leaked credentials were obtained through a combination of phishing attacks, malware, and other forms of data theft. The hackers may have used sophisticated techniques to steal the credentials, and it’s possible that the breach was carried out by a single group or multiple groups working together.
What can users do to protect themselves?
The first step is to change your passwords immediately. If you have an account on any of the affected platforms or services, you need to change your password to prevent potential breaches. It’s also important to enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible, as this adds an extra layer of security to your account.
Another important step is to monitor your accounts closely. Keep an eye on your account activity, and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities. It’s also important to use strong, unique passwords for each account, and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.
What can companies do to prevent similar breaches in the future?
Companies need to take immediate action to prevent similar breaches in the future. This includes implementing robust security measures, such as encryption and two-factor authentication, to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information. They also need to educate their users about the importance of password security and provide them with the tools and resources they need to protect themselves.
Companies also need to conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities and fix them before they can be exploited by hackers. They also need to work with law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts to identify and prosecute the hackers responsible for the breach.
Conclusion
The leak of over 18.4 crore account credentials is a major cybersecurity crisis, and it’s clear that the impact will be felt for a long time. Users need to take immediate action to protect themselves, and companies need to take steps to prevent similar breaches in the future. The security of our personal data is at risk, and it’s up to us to take action to protect it.
