CHINA TOPIX

12/22/2024 05:11:02 pm

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Is Your Password Among the 5 Million Leaked Online? Websites Claiming to Check Can Also Be Malware

The accounts and passwords of over five million Google users might have been leaked online.

The compromised accounts are believed to include 60 percent active accounts. Most of the compromised accounts are from Russian users. There are also some English and Spanish users in the list, as well.

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This massive online security breach gained mainstream attention when a link to the database was posted and shared on a section of Reddit linked to hackers.

These leaked details can be used to gain access not only to Gmail accounts but to all accounts linked to Google such as YouTube and other services provided by the tech giant.

The database is apparently stored in a text file and has been uploaded on a Bitcoin Security Forum where the user tvskit first noticed the leak.

The security of Google's users especially their information has always been a top priority, said a Google spokesperson regarding the alleged leak.

In addition, Google has no evidence their systems have been compromised. Google said that when it becomes aware of any breach of accounts, it immediately takes steps to help secure users' accounts.

This alleged usernames and passwords were probably taken from computers infected with malware and not from a direct breach of Google's security system.

It's Google's protocol that when there is unusual activity in their accounts, it alerts users with warnings regarding sign-ins or password changes coming from unfamiliar locations and unrecognized devices.

Those concerned about their hacked accounts that may be included in the list are strongly advised not to use any website that claims to check if accounts are compromised. This is a ploy used by cybercriminals to steal information.

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