In a significant cyber security breach, hackers have reportedly leaked a file containing approximately 10 billion (1,000 crores) passwords on an online forum. The breach, identified by Semafor, includes a compilation of both old and recent password breaches and marks one of the largest leaks of its kind, as reported last week, July 4.

The leaked file poses a serious risk of credential stuffing attacks, where hackers use breached passwords to gain unauthorized access to multiple accounts associated with the affected users. Cybernews highlighted incidents affecting various platforms, including AT&T, Santander Bank, Ticketmaster, and 23andMe, among others.

According to the Semafor report, the sheer volume of leaked passwords provides hackers with a consolidated resource for potential cyber attacks. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and studies published in the Lancet Journal underscore the global surge in malicious cyber activities since 2020, with sectors like finance and healthcare experiencing a disproportionate number of cyber attacks.

Despite concerns raised by the leak, some experts suggest that the overwhelming size of the file might render it impractical for immediate exploitation. However, cybersecurity professionals emphasize the critical need for robust online security practices amidst the persistent vulnerabilities exposed by such breaches.

To protect themselves, users are advised to:

• Use unique passwords for each platform, especially for sensitive accounts related to banking and financial services.
• Create strong passwords consisting of eight to twelve characters, incorporating at least one uppercase letter, one numeral, and one special symbol.
• Avoid sharing passwords with others or writing them down where they can be easily accessed.
• Regularly update passwords and PINs to enhance security and minimize risks associated with data breaches.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, proactive measures in personal online security remain paramount to safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access and potential exploitation.

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