Massive Password Leak from Major Tech Companies Raises Concerns

Recent reports from Forbes and Cyber News have revealed a staggering breach involving the passwords and usernames of over 16 billion users worldwide across various applications, including platforms like Facebook, Apple, and X.

Massive 16 Billion Password Leak Includes Facebook

According to the reports, this leak is one of the largest in many years, affecting 30 different and relatively recent databases, rather than just being recycled data from previous breaches.

Cybersecurity experts told Forbes that this is not just another typical leak, but a formidable resource enabling potential identity theft or account hijackings, given the sheer volume of data involved.

Malicious Cyberattacks on Websites

The Cyber News report highlighted that the leak was not the result of direct hacking or malicious cyberattacks against these sites, but was facilitated through information-stealing malware known as "Info Stealer."

This malware functions by storing any accessible passwords through browsers or the system, affecting both Windows and Mac computers, and then sharing this log with those managing the malware.

Essential Password Updates for Enhanced Security

Cybersecurity researcher Bob Diachenko stated that the breached data did not indicate a centralized leak from any single company. However, it did involve various accounts on these platforms, as login links were pointing to them.

Cyber experts urge users to update old passwords as a fundamental step, even if their accounts were not explicitly mentioned in this breach, in addition to implementing other basic cybersecurity measures.