Leak exposes billions of passwords and raises global alert about digital security

Leak exposes billions of passwords and raises global alert about digital security

One of the largest data leaks in the history of the internet is being reported by experts from the Cybernews platform, who identified the exposure of around 16 billion passwords. The episode is already being considered one of the largest incidents involving access credentials to online services — such as emails, social networks, storage platforms and even government systems.

One of the largest data leaks in the history of the internet is being reported by experts from the Cybernews platform, who identified the exposure of around 16 billion passwords. The episode is already being considered one of the largest incidents involving access credentials to online services — such as emails, social networks, storage platforms and even government systems.

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The material was reportedly found in a compilation of around 30 different databases, with millions and even billions of records. Although the exact volume of unique data is under question, the alert has been issued: passwords may be being used by criminals on a large scale.

Despite the alarming scale, cybersecurity experts urge caution. The company Bleeping Computer stated that part of the information may be made up of recycled old data — which has already happened in previous cases, such as RockYou2024, which also caused a stir by revealing almost 10 billion passwords, many of which had already been compromised in previous leaks.

Is this really new data or an inflated compilation?

The debate revolves around the authenticity and currentness of the data. Cybernews claims that the files contain recent information, much of it obtained through infostealers — malicious software that invades devices and extracts confidential information without the user noticing.

On the other hand, the company Hudson Rock argues that, to reach the 16 billion passwords mentioned, it would be necessary to invade around 320 million computers — which raises doubts about the plausibility of the number. The company considers the estimate "inflated" and claims that the data may contain many repetitions, outdated information or even artificially generated credentials.

The impact on Brazil and the world

There is still no official confirmation that Brazilian users are among those affected. However, the largest database on the list is potentially linked to Portuguese-speaking populations, which raises a red flag for Brazilians.

Researcher Troy Hunt, creator of the famous Have I Been Pwned website, which monitors leaks, stated that he is still investigating whether the new database can be integrated into the platform. The FBI, in turn, issued statements reinforcing guidelines against phishing via SMS and warning about the risk of scams linked to these leaks.

How to protect yourself: recommendations from experts

In view of the massive exposure of credentials, digital security professionals list immediate actions to mitigate risks:

🔒 Update old and repeated passwords;

🔐 Use reliable password managers;

📲 Enable multifactor authentication on your accounts;

🚫 Avoid clicking on links received in suspicious messages;

👁️‍🗨️ Keep a constant eye on your online access and activities.

Large companies such as Google and Meta (Facebook) were mentioned among the possible targets of attacks, but denied any involvement in direct violation. Google also reinforced that tools such as access keys and password managers are essential in protecting accounts.

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DFATOS is following the case and will provide updates on the repercussions and developments of this possible mega data breach. Stay tuned for our alerts and reinforce your cybersecurity.

Nico McLaughlin

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