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 (184 million) 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, with many users left wondering how to stay safe from these compromised accounts. The worrying part is that the file containing the credentials isn’t even password-protected, making it extremely accessible to cybercriminals and malicious actors.
According to reports, the massive data breach was discovered by Jeremiah Fowler, a cybersecurity researcher who has been tracking online threats for years. Fowler has been analyzing the leaked data and has found that it contains login credentials from various platforms, including social media, banking, and government websites.
The leaked data includes a wide range of credentials, including:
- Facebook and Instagram login information and passwords
- Apple ID and password combinations
- Microsoft account login credentials
- Google account login information and passwords
- Credentials from government portals and bank and financial sites
The sheer scale of the breach is staggering, with over 184 million accounts compromised. This raises serious concerns about the security of these platforms and the potential consequences for users.
Cybersecurity experts have warned that the leaked credentials can be used to carry out various malicious activities, including:
- Identity theft
- Financial fraud
- Spamming and phishing attacks
- Data breaches
To make matters worse, the lack of password protection on the leaked file means that anyone can access the compromised credentials, making it a goldmine for cybercriminals.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
While the news may seem daunting, there are steps you can take to protect your online accounts and prevent potential breaches:
- Change Your Passwords: Immediately change your passwords for all compromised accounts, including Facebook, Instagram, Apple, Microsoft, Google, and any other platforms that have been affected.
- Use Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and avoid using easily guessable information like birthdates or common words.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts that offer it. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to enter a code sent to your phone or email in addition to your password.
- Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly monitor your accounts for suspicious activity and report any unusual behavior to the relevant authorities.
- Keep Your Software Up-to-Date: Ensure that your operating system, browser, and other software are up-to-date with the latest security patches.
Conclusion
The news of over 18 crore Facebook, Instagram, and Apple passwords being leaked online is a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. It is essential that users take proactive measures to protect their online accounts and prevent potential breaches.
While the situation may seem alarming, it is crucial to remember that taking steps to secure your accounts can help prevent identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities.
Stay safe online and take control of your digital security today!
