Digital security specialized researchers discovered an unprecedented data leakage last Friday (20), with over 16 billion platform credentials such as Facebook, Instagram, Gmail and Apple having been exposed globally.
The discovery, by CyberNew researchers, generates a concern about a possible new wave of cyber crimes parties of leaked information.
How was the leak?
The visibility of confidential information varies from lower bases, such as tens of millions of data, to massive bases of 3.5 billion credentials.
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The massive influx of passwords was accessed briefly through non -secure databases, which were later closed. The researchers were unable to identify the owners.
The leaked “URL, username and password” format is compatible with Malware Infostealer, malicious software made for sensitive information from devices affected by potential attack.
What passwords were affected?
According to CyberNews, leaked credentials include social networking logins such as Facebook and Instagram, as well as Gmail email and message apps like Telegram. Even government portals may have been hit.
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What you should do to protect yourself
With approximately 5.5 billion people with internet access globally, the leak possibly affects several accounts per person. Information security experts recommend immediate change of all passwords, all accounts.
It is also recommended authentication in two steps, when possible, and generate strong and unique passwords.
Sites like “Have I Been Pwned” serve to monitor probable leaks of your data.
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An important security measure is always to use the latest version of all software and applications you have, as well as avoiding suspicious links.
