Recent analyses by Cybernews revealed one of the largest login data breaches in history, exposing 16 billion records spread across more than 30 databases. Alarmingly, these are fresh records—not just old, recycled data—but collected using advanced information-stealing software (infostealers).
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This news comes amid previous warnings from Kaspersky, which reported a worrying 21% increase in global password theft attacks between 2023 and 2024. The cause? Spyware and data-stealing malware have become among the most widespread cyber threats, targeting millions of devices and putting sensitive personal data at risk.
How Is Data Stolen and Traded?
These malicious programs extract sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, cookies, and other vital data. The collected data is stored in logs, then sold and traded on the Dark Web, providing cybercriminals with ammunition to carry out fraud or unauthorized account access.
Kaspersky Experts’ Take on the Leak
Alexandra Fedoseemova, a digital footprint analyst at Kaspersky, explained that 16 billion records are nearly twice the world’s population, emphasizing how difficult it is to comprehend such a massive amount. She confirmed this breach is not a single incident but a compilation of about 30 user data breaches from various sources, gathered by daily-operating infostealers.
While Cybernews researchers noted the newly discovered databases were previously unreported, Fedoseemova warned this doesn’t necessarily mean the data is entirely new or not leaked before via other channels, making it hard to identify the exact number of unique records.
Dmitry Galov, head of global research and analysis at Kaspersky, highlighted the threat, calling the leak a reflection of the "thriving cybercrime economy." He explained that credential theft has become an industrialized process: data is collected via infostealers and phishing attacks, enriched with additional info, and sold—often multiple times—in continuously updated “combo lists.”
Galov also pointed to a particularly worrying aspect: Cybernews claimed some datasets were temporarily publicly available via unsecured channels, allowing anyone to access them.
Kaspersky Experts’ Recommendations to Protect Your Data
In light of rising threats, Anna Larkina, an internet content analyst at Kaspersky, stresses the utmost need to enhance “digital hygiene.” Here are her top tips for securing your accounts:
Regularly update passwords: Use strong, unique passwords for each account and change them periodically.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra security layer to all your accounts.
Immediate contact with support: If your accounts are compromised, contact support immediately to regain control and assess the breach.
Use a reliable password manager: Tools like Kaspersky Password Manager safely store your credentials.
Be alert to social engineering attacks: Always be cautious, as scammers may exploit leaked data to launch targeted phishing attacks.
In Conclusion: Protecting Your Data Is a Top Priority
The sharp rise in password theft attacks and the vast quantities of leaked data circulating on the Dark Web underscore the critical importance of adopting strong digital security practices. In the booming cybercrime economy, individuals and organizations must take proactive measures to safeguard sensitive data. These steps are not merely recommendations but essential necessities in the evolving landscape of cyber threats.
