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. What’s even more alarming is that the file containing the leaked credentials is not even password-protected.
The massive data breach has left millions of users vulnerable to cyber attacks, as the leaked credentials can be used by hackers to gain unauthorized access to their accounts. The implications of such a breach are far-reaching, and it is essential for users to take immediate action to protect their online identities.
According to reports, the leaked file contains a list of usernames and passwords in plain text, making it easy for hackers to access the accounts. The file also includes login credentials for various government portals, bank and financial sites, and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat.
The affected platforms include:
- Apple
- Microsoft
- Snapchat
- Government portals
- Bank and financial sites
The sheer scale of the breach is staggering, with over 184 million credentials leaked. This is a massive blow to cybersecurity, as it highlights the ease with which hackers can access sensitive information.
The lack of password protection on the leaked file is particularly concerning. In today’s digital age, password protection is a fundamental aspect of cybersecurity. The fact that the file is not password-protected raises serious questions about the security measures in place to protect sensitive data.
What can users do to protect themselves?
In light of this massive data breach, it is essential for users to take immediate action to protect their online identities. Here are some steps you can take:
- Change your passwords: If you have an account on any of the affected platforms, change your password immediately. Use strong and unique passwords for each account.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your account by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or a biometric scan.
- Monitor your accounts: Keep a close eye on your accounts for any suspicious activity. Check your account activity regularly and report any unusual behavior to the relevant authorities.
- Use a password manager: Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts.
- Avoid using the same password across multiple platforms: Using the same password across multiple platforms makes it easy for hackers to access your accounts. Avoid this practice and use unique passwords for each account.
What can be done to prevent such breaches in the future?
Preventing massive data breaches like this requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some measures that can be taken:
- Implement robust security measures: Platforms must implement robust security measures to protect user data. This includes using strong encryption, securing databases, and implementing access controls.
- Regularly update software and systems: Regularly updating software and systems is essential to patch vulnerabilities and prevent attacks.
- Educate users: Educating users on cybersecurity best practices is crucial to preventing data breaches. Users must be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves.
- Conduct regular security audits: Conducting regular security audits can help identify vulnerabilities and prevent attacks.
- Implement incident response plans: Having an incident response plan in place can help prevent the spread of a data breach and minimize the impact on users.
Conclusion
The massive data breach involving over 184 million account credentials is a sobering reminder of the importance of cybersecurity. It is essential for users to take immediate action to protect their online identities and for platforms to implement robust security measures to prevent such breaches in the future.
By following the steps outlined above and taking a proactive approach to cybersecurity, we can prevent massive data breaches like this and protect our online identities.
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