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 compromised credentials belong to accounts on various government portals, bank and financial sites, as well as popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Microsoft, Apple, and Google.
The alarming news has sent shockwaves across the globe, highlighting the growing threat of data breaches and the importance of online security. The leaked file containing the credentials is not even password-protected, making it vulnerable to further exploitation.
According to a report by NDTV Profit, the massive data breach is believed to have occurred due to a vulnerability in the software used by the affected companies. The report states that the vulnerability was exploited by hackers, who then harvested the login credentials and stored them in a single file.
The sheer scale of the breach is staggering, with over 18.4 crore account credentials compromised. This number is likely to rise as more companies and individuals realize the extent of the breach. The affected companies include Facebook, Instagram, Apple, Microsoft, Google, and several government portals and bank and financial sites.
The leaked credentials are believed to include login information, passwords, and other sensitive data. This information can be used by hackers to gain unauthorized access to compromised accounts, leading to financial losses, identity theft, and other cybercrimes.
The report highlights the importance of strong password management and two-factor authentication to prevent such breaches. It also emphasizes the need for companies to invest in robust security measures to protect user data.
In recent years, there have been several high-profile data breaches that have compromised millions of user accounts. The most notable example is the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal, which exposed the personal data of over 87 million Facebook users.
The recent breach is a stark reminder of the importance of online security and the need for individuals and companies to take proactive measures to protect their data. It is essential for users to change their passwords regularly, use strong and unique passwords, and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.
In addition, companies must invest in robust security measures to prevent data breaches and protect user data. This includes implementing regular security audits, patching vulnerabilities, and educating employees on online security best practices.
The Indian government has taken several steps to improve online security in recent years. The government has implemented the Aadhaar Act, which aims to provide a secure and unique identity to every citizen. The government has also launched several initiatives to promote online security, including the “Cyber Surakshit Bharat” program, which aims to create a secure and trustworthy online environment.
In conclusion, the recent data breach is a wake-up call for individuals and companies to take online security seriously. It is essential for users to change their passwords regularly, use strong and unique passwords, and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access to their accounts. Companies must invest in robust security measures to prevent data breaches and protect user data.
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