CyberSecurity news
Dissent@DataBreaches.Net
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A massive collection of 16 billion login credentials has been discovered, representing one of the largest data thefts in history. Cybernews reports that the exposed data likely originates from various infostealers, malicious software designed to gather sensitive information from infected devices. Researchers have uncovered 30 exposed data sets containing millions to over 3.5 billion records each, totaling the astounding 16 billion credentials. These datasets include logins for major platforms like Apple, Google, Facebook, and Telegram, raising significant concerns about widespread account compromise.
Researchers noted that these datasets were not simply recycled from old data leaks but represent new, potentially "weaponized" information. The exposed data contains a mix of details from stealer malware, credential stuffing sets, and repackaged leaks. While it was not possible to compare data between the different sets effectively, the sheer volume and the platforms targeted highlight the severity of the situation. The data sets were only exposed for a short period and it remains unknown who controlled the large amount of data.
The exposure of these 16 billion credentials poses a significant risk of account takeovers, identity theft, and targeted phishing attacks. Cybercriminals now have access to an unprecedented volume of personal data. Users are advised to take immediate action to protect their accounts, including enabling multi-factor authentication and using strong, unique passwords for all online services. News sources indicate that this is not a new data breach but is rather a compilation of previously leaked credentials.
References :
- www.bleepingcomputer.com: No, the 16 billion credentials leak is not a new data breach.
- www.it-daily.net: 16 billion login details: the data theft that nobody knew about
- Malwarebytes: Billions of logins for Apple, Google, Facebook, Telegram, and more found exposed online
- Kaspersky official blog: The world's biggest data breach: what should folks do? | Kaspersky official blog
- aboutdfir.com: No, the 16 billion credentials leak is not a new data breach News broke today of a “mother of all breaches,†sparking wide media coverage filled with warnings and fear-mongering.
- bsky.app: No, the 16 billion credentials leak is not a new data breach. Thanks @lawrenceabrams.bsky.social for being a knowledgeable and calm voice amidst the yelling about this 'breach'.
- flare.io: This week, Forbes published research from a CyberNews article, which detailed the leakage of 16B credentials. We want to emphasize an important piece of this viral story: “30 exposed datasets containing from tens of millions to over 3.5 billion records each,†have been discovered.
- techxplore.com: Researchers at cybersecurity outlet Cybernews say that billions of login credentials have been leaked and compiled into datasets online, giving criminals "unprecedented access" to accounts consumers use each day.
- Billy Bambrough: A massive 16 billion password hack has sparked calls for an urgent upgrade...
- aboutdfir.com: No, the 16 billion credentials leak is not a new data breach News broke today of a “mother of all breaches,†sparking wide media coverage filled with warnings and fear-mongering. However, it appears to be a compilation of previously leaked credentials stolen by infostealers, exposed in data breaches, and via credential stuffing attacks. To be clear, this
- flare.io: This week, Forbes published research from a CyberNews article, which detailed the leakage of 16B credentials. We want to emphasize an important piece of this viral story: “30 exposed datasets containing from tens of millions to over 3.5 billion records each,†have been discovered.
- DataBreaches.Net: DataBreaches.net article on the 16 billion credentials leak
- Metacurity: Report of 16 billion credentials breach debunked
- www.cysecurity.news: Massive Data Leak Exposes 16 Billion Login Records from Major Online Services
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