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, as well as popular social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Microsoft, Apple, and Google.
What’s even more alarming is that the file containing the credentials isn’t even password-protected, making it easily accessible to anyone who stumbles upon it. The massive data breach has sent shockwaves across the globe, leaving millions of users wondering if their personal data has been compromised.
According to the report, the leaked credentials include a mix of old and new passwords, making it a significant threat to online security. The breach is so massive that it’s likely to take years to identify all the affected accounts and notify the respective users.
The leaked file, which is believed to have been circulating online for some time, contains a staggering 18,456,959,140 account credentials. The file is a plain text document, which means that anyone who accesses it can easily read and use the credentials without any restrictions.
The implications of this massive data breach are far-reaching and worrying. With such a large number of credentials leaked online, it’s likely that hackers will use them to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, steal personal data, and even commit financial crimes.
The breach is also a significant blow to the reputation of the companies whose accounts have been compromised. Facebook, Instagram, Apple, and other affected companies will have to work overtime to notify their users, reset passwords, and implement additional security measures to prevent similar breaches in the future.
The report has sent a strong message to tech companies and users alike: online security is a shared responsibility, and it’s essential to take proactive measures to protect personal data.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Online Security
In light of this massive data breach, here are some essential steps you can take to protect your online security:
- Change Your Passwords: Immediately change your passwords for all accounts that have been compromised. Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and avoid using the same password across multiple platforms.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a verification 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 respective authorities.
- Use a Password Manager: Consider using a password manager to generate and store unique, strong passwords for each of your accounts.
- Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing sensitive information or logging into your accounts while using public Wi-Fi networks, as they may be vulnerable to hacking.
Conclusion
The massive data breach reported by cybersecurity researcher Jeremiah Fowler serves as a stark reminder of the importance of online security. With over 18 crore account credentials leaked online, it’s essential for users to take proactive measures to protect their personal data.
In the wake of this breach, it’s crucial for tech companies to prioritize online security and implement robust measures to prevent similar breaches in the future. By working together, we can create a safer, more secure online environment for everyone.
