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Password Privacy
Cyber Defenses cyberattack protection Data protection data security IP Address ISP NordVPN Online Privacy Password Privacy

Using a VPN Is Essential for Online Privacy and Data Protection

 

Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, have evolved from tools used to bypass geographic content restrictions into one of the most effective defenses for protecting digital privacy and data security. By encrypting your internet traffic and concealing your real IP address, VPNs make it far more difficult for anyone — from hackers to internet service providers (ISPs) — to monitor or intercept your online activity. 

When connected to a VPN, your data is sent through a secure, encrypted tunnel before reaching its destination. This means that any information transmitted between your device and the VPN server remains unreadable to outsiders. Once your data reaches the server, it’s decrypted and forwarded to the intended website or application. In return, the response is re-encrypted before traveling back to you. Essentially, your data is “cloaked” from potential attackers, making it especially valuable when using public Wi-Fi networks, where Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks such as IP spoofing or Wi-Fi eavesdropping are common. 

For businesses, combining VPN usage with endpoint security and antivirus software strengthens overall cybersecurity posture by reducing exposure to network vulnerabilities.

A key advantage of VPNs lies in hiding your IP address, which can otherwise reveal your geographic location and online behavior. Exposing your IP makes you vulnerable to phishing, hacking, and DDoS attacks, and it can even allow malicious actors to impersonate you online. By rerouting your connection through a VPN server, your actual IP is replaced by the server’s, ensuring that websites and external entities can’t trace your real identity or location. 

In addition to safeguarding data, VPNs also help counter ISP throttling — the practice of deliberately slowing internet connections during high-traffic periods or after reaching data caps. With a VPN, your ISP cannot see the exact nature of your online activities, whether streaming, gaming, or torrenting. While ISPs can still detect VPN usage and measure total data transferred, they lose visibility into your specific browsing habits. 

Without a VPN, ISPs can track every website you visit, your search history, and even personal information transmitted over unencrypted connections. This data can be sold to advertisers or used to create detailed user profiles. Even browsing in Incognito mode doesn’t prevent ISPs from seeing your activity — it merely stops your device from saving it locally. 

Beyond using a VPN, good cyber hygiene is crucial. Keep your software and devices updated, use strong passwords, and enable antivirus protection. Avoid sharing unnecessary personal data online and think twice before storing sensitive information on unsecured platforms.  

Ultimately, a VPN isn’t a luxury — it’s a fundamental privacy tool. It protects your data, masks your identity, and keeps your online behavior hidden from prying eyes. In an era of widespread tracking and data monetization, using a VPN is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reclaim your digital privacy.
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Identity Theft
Airline Customer Data Cyber Attacks cyberattacks on airline Data Breaches Data Leak data security Hackers Identity Theft

Qantas Data Leak Highlights Rising Airline Cyberattacks and Identity Theft Risks

 

Airlines continue to attract the attention of cybercriminals due to the vast amounts of personal data they collect, with passports and government IDs among the most valuable targets. According to privacy firm Incogni, the exposure of such documents poses a “severe, long-term identity theft risk” since they are difficult to replace and can be exploited for years in fraud schemes involving fake identities, counterfeit documents, and impersonation scams. 

The recent Qantas Airways data breach, claimed by the Scattered LAPSUS$ Hunters group, underscores the sector’s growing vulnerability. The stolen data included names, email addresses, Frequent Flyer details, and limited personal information such as phone numbers and birth dates. Fortunately, Qantas confirmed that no passport details, financial information, or credit card data were compromised. 

However, experts warn that even limited leaks can have serious consequences. “Attackers often combine personal identifiers like names and loyalty program details from multiple breaches to build complete identity profiles,” said Darius Belejevas, Head of Incogni. Such composite records can enable large-scale fraud even without financial data exposure. 

The Qantas incident also highlights the danger of third-party compromises. The breach reportedly stemmed from Salesforce social engineering and vendor vulnerabilities, illustrating how a single compromised supplier can have ripple effects across industries. Belejevas emphasized that “one compromised partner can expose millions of records in a single incident.” 

Data breaches in the airline industry are escalating rapidly. According to Cyble’s threat intelligence database, more than 20 airline-related breaches have been reported on the dark web in 2025 — a 50% increase from 2024. Much of this surge is attributed to coordinated attacks by Scattered Spider and the broader Scattered LAPSUS$ Hunters alliance, although other groups have also begun targeting the aviation sector. 

In a separate incident, the CL0P ransomware group claimed to have breached Envoy Air, a regional carrier of American Airlines. Envoy confirmed the intrusion but stated that no customer data was affected, only limited business information. In contrast, WestJet, which suffered a breach in June 2025, had passports and government-issued IDs exposed, prompting it to offer two years of free identity monitoring to affected customers. Incogni, however, warned that identity theft risks from such documents can persist well beyond two years. 

Experts urge travelers to take preventive security measures. Incogni recommends enrolling in identity theft monitoring, reporting phishing attempts to national anti-fraud agencies, using strong passwords with multi-factor authentication, and removing personal data from data broker sites. 

“Individuals and organizations must do more to safeguard sensitive data,” said Ron Zayas, CEO of Incogni. “In today’s world, data isn’t just being stolen by hackers — it’s also being misused by legitimate entities to manipulate outcomes.”
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leaked sensitive data
Asahi Beer Cyber Attacks Cyberattacks cybercriminal group CyberSecurity Ransomware Attacks Data Leak Data protection data security leaked sensitive data

Asahi Group Confirms Ransomware Attack Disrupting Operations and Leaking Data

 

Japanese food and beverage conglomerate Asahi Group Holdings has confirmed that a ransomware attack severely disrupted its operations and potentially exposed sensitive data, including employee and financial information. The cyberattack, which occurred on September 29, 2025, forced the company to delay releasing its January–September financial results, originally scheduled for November 12. 

The attack paralyzed Asahi’s domestic order and shipment systems, halting automated operations across Japan. Despite the disruption, the company implemented manual order processing and resumed partial shipments to ensure a continued supply of its popular beverages and food products. 

The Qilin ransomware group has claimed responsibility for the breach, asserting that it stole over 9,300 files containing personal and financial data. On October 8, Asahi confirmed that some of the stolen data was found online, prompting a detailed investigation into the scope and type of compromised information. In a public statement, the company said it is working to identify affected individuals and will issue notifications once the investigation confirms unauthorized data transfer.  

Although the incident primarily impacted systems within Japan, Asahi stated there is no evidence of compromise affecting its global operations. 

Recovery efforts are steadily progressing. Asahi Breweries resumed production at all six of its factories by October 2, restoring shipments of Asahi Super Dry, with other product lines following soon after. Asahi Soft Drinks restarted production at six of its seven plants by October 8, while Asahi Group Foods has also resumed partial operations at all seven domestic facilities.  

However, Asahi’s systems have not yet been fully restored, and the company has not provided a definite recovery timeline. The ongoing disruption has delayed access to critical accounting systems, forcing a postponement of quarterly financial reporting. 

In its official statement, Asahi explained that the financial disclosure delay is necessary to ensure accuracy and compliance amid system recovery. The company issued an apology to shareholders and stakeholders for the inconvenience caused and promised transparent updates as investigations and remediation progress. 

The Asahi Group cyberattack serves as another reminder of the rising frequency and impact of ransomware incidents targeting major corporations worldwide.
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Hacker attack
Breaches Critical Infrastructure critical infrastructure attack Cyber Attacks Cyberhackers data security F5 Security Hacker attack

Nation-State Hackers Breach F5 Networks, Exposing Thousands of Government and Corporate Systems to Imminent Threat

 

Thousands of networks operated by the U.S. government and Fortune 500 companies are facing an “imminent threat” of cyber intrusion after a major breach at Seattle-based software maker F5 Networks, the federal government warned on Wednesday. The company, known for its BIG-IP networking appliances, confirmed that a nation-state hacking group had infiltrated its systems in what it described as a “sophisticated, long-term intrusion.” 

According to F5, the attackers gained control of the network segment used to develop and distribute updates for its BIG-IP line—a critical infrastructure tool used by 48 of the world’s top 50 corporations. During their time inside F5’s systems, the hackers accessed proprietary source code, documentation of unpatched vulnerabilities, and customer configuration data. Such access provides attackers with an extraordinary understanding of the product’s architecture and weaknesses, raising serious concerns about potential supply-chain attacks targeting thousands of networks worldwide. 

Security analysts suggest that control of F5’s build environment could allow adversaries to manipulate software updates or exploit unpatched flaws within BIG-IP devices. These appliances often sit at the edge of networks, acting as load balancers, firewalls, and encryption gateways—meaning a compromise could provide a direct pathway into sensitive systems. The stolen configuration data also increases the likelihood that hackers could exploit credentials or internal settings for deeper infiltration. 

Despite the severity of the breach, F5 stated that investigations by multiple cybersecurity firms, including IOActive, NCC Group, Mandiant, and CrowdStrike, have not found evidence of tampering within its source code or build pipeline. The assessments further confirmed that no critical vulnerabilities were introduced and no customer or financial data was exfiltrated from F5’s internal systems. However, experts caution that the attackers’ deep access and stolen intelligence could still enable future targeted exploits. 

In response, F5 has issued updates for its BIG-IP, F5OS, BIG-IQ, and APM products and rotated its signing certificates to secure its software distribution process. The company has also provided a threat-hunting guide to assist customers in detecting potential compromise indicators. 

The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an emergency directive warning that the breach “poses an unacceptable risk” to federal networks. Agencies using F5 appliances have been ordered to inventory all affected devices, install the latest patches, and follow the company’s threat-hunting protocols. Similarly, the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has released guidance urging organizations to update their systems immediately. 

While no supply-chain compromise has yet been confirmed, the breach of a vendor as deeply embedded in global enterprise networks as F5 underscores the growing risk of nation-state infiltration in critical infrastructure software. As investigations continue, security officials are urging both government and private organizations to take swift action to mitigate potential downstream threats.
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Malwares
Cybersecurity Breach Data Breach data security Data Stolen Google Pixel Malware attacks Malwares

Pixnapping Malware Exploits Android’s Rendering Pipeline to Steal Sensitive Data from Google and Samsung Devices

 

Cybersecurity researchers have revealed a new Android malware attack called Pixnapping, capable of stealing sensitive information from Google and Samsung smartphones without any user interaction. The name “Pixnapping” blends “pixel” and “snapping,” referring to how the malware stealthily extracts visual data pixel by pixel from targeted apps. 

When a user installs an app laced with the Pixnapping malware, it silently scans the device for other apps to spy on—such as Google Authenticator. Instead of opening the target app directly, the malware leverages the Android rendering pipeline to intercept the visual data being displayed. It then analyzes the color and content of individual pixels in areas known to display confidential information, like two-factor authentication (2FA) codes. By interpreting these pixels, the malware reconstructs the original data—essentially taking “invisible screenshots” of protected content without ever triggering normal app permissions. 

According to researchers, three flaws in Android’s design enable Pixnapping. First, apps can invoke another app’s activity through the rendering pipeline, which allows unauthorized access to refresh sensitive screens. Second, Android permits graphical operations to be performed on another app’s displayed content. Third, apps can detect pixel color changes during these operations, revealing the hidden visual data. 

Tests confirmed Pixnapping’s success across several devices, including the Pixel 6, 7, 8, and 9, as well as the Samsung Galaxy S25, running Android versions 13 through 16. The malware’s efficiency varied across devices, achieving success rates between 29% and 73% on Pixel models. On the Galaxy S25, however, researchers couldn’t extract 2FA codes before they expired. The attack was also demonstrated on apps and services such as Gmail, Signal, Venmo, Google Accounts, and Google Maps—indicating that Pixnapping could potentially expose emails, encrypted messages, payment data, and location histories. 

The vulnerability is tracked as CVE-2025-48561. While Google has issued an initial patch, researchers found ways to bypass it, prompting Google to develop a stronger fix expected in the December Android security update.  

Fortunately, Pixnapping has not been detected in active attacks yet. Still, experts urge users to stay vigilant by updating their devices with the latest security patches and downloading apps only from verified marketplaces such as the Google Play Store. Even then, users should double-check app details to ensure authenticity and avoid sideloading unverified applications. 

Pixnapping underscores a critical flaw in Android’s visual data handling and highlights the growing sophistication of modern mobile malware. Until Google delivers a complete patch, maintaining cautious download habits and prompt software updates remains the best defense.
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Microsoft
ai agents AI technology Cloud Cloud Security Critical Data Cyber Security data security Microsoft

Microsoft Sentinel Aims to Unify Cloud Security but Faces Questions on Value and Maturity

 

Microsoft is positioning its Sentinel platform as the foundation of a unified cloud-based security ecosystem. At its core, Sentinel is a security information and event management (SIEM) system designed to collect, aggregate, and analyze data from numerous sources — including logs, metrics, and signals — to identify potential malicious activity across complex enterprise networks. The company’s vision is to make Sentinel the central hub for enterprise cybersecurity operations.

A recent enhancement to Sentinel introduces a data lake capability, allowing flexible and open access to the vast quantities of security data it processes. This approach enables customers, partners, and vendors to build upon Sentinel’s infrastructure and customize it to their unique requirements. Rather than keeping data confined within Sentinel’s ecosystem, Microsoft is promoting a multi-modal interface, inviting integration and collaboration — a move intended to solidify Sentinel as the core of every enterprise security strategy. 

Despite this ambition, Sentinel remains a relatively young product in Microsoft’s security portfolio. Its positioning alongside other tools, such as Microsoft Defender, still generates confusion. Defender serves as the company’s extended detection and response (XDR) tool and is expected to be the main interface for most security operations teams. Microsoft envisions Defender as one of many “windows” into Sentinel, tailored for different user personas — though the exact structure and functionality of these views remain largely undefined. 

There is potential for innovation, particularly with Sentinel’s data lake supporting graph-based queries that can analyze attack chains or assess the blast radius of an intrusion. However, Microsoft’s growing focus on generative and “agentic” AI may be diverting attention from Sentinel’s immediate development needs. The company’s integration of a Model Context Protocol (MCP) server within Sentinel’s architecture hints at ambitions to power AI agents using Sentinel’s datasets. This would give Microsoft a significant advantage if such agents become widely adopted within enterprises, as it would control access to critical security data. 

While Sentinel promises a comprehensive solution for data collection, risk identification, and threat response, its value proposition remains uncertain. The pricing reflects its ambition as a strategic platform, but customers are still evaluating whether it delivers enough tangible benefits to justify the investment. As it stands, Sentinel’s long-term potential as a unified security platform is compelling, but the product continues to evolve, and its stability as a foundation for enterprise-wide adoption remains unproven. 

For now, organizations deeply integrated with Azure may find it practical to adopt Sentinel at the core of their security operations. Others, however, may prefer to weigh alternatives from established vendors such as Splunk, Datadog, LogRhythm, or Elastic, which offer mature and battle-tested SIEM solutions. Microsoft’s vision of a seamless, AI-driven, cloud-secure future may be within reach someday, but Sentinel still has considerable ground to cover before it becomes the universal security platform Microsoft envisions.
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Privacy Issues
Android data security Data tracking Google Maps iOS Open Source Privacy Privacy Issues

CoMaps: The Open-Source, Privacy-Focused Google Maps Alternative You’ll Actually Want to Use

 

Google Maps may be convenient, but for some users, its constant tracking and battery drain are reason enough to look for an alternative. One such option is CoMaps, an open-source navigation app built for privacy and efficiency. Users frustrated by Google’s monthly location reports or the high battery consumption of Maps may find CoMaps to be a refreshing change. 

CoMaps is a fork of Organic Maps, which itself evolved from the earlier project MapsWithMe, later acquired by the Russian-based Maps.ru group. Like its predecessors, CoMaps uses OpenStreetMap data — a community-driven platform that emphasizes transparency and collaboration. The app, available for both Android and iOS, stands out for its offline usability and no-tracking policy. 

Unlike Google Maps, CoMaps collects no personal information, doesn’t serve ads, and doesn’t require a constant internet connection. It offers offline search, route planning, and voice-guided navigation while consuming far less battery power. Users can download regional maps, mark and save favorite spots, view subway maps, and even access offline Wikipedia articles for added context. Another standout feature is CoMaps’ outdoor mode, designed for hiking and biking. 

This mode highlights trails, campsites, points of interest, and even water sources — making it ideal for travelers and adventurers who prefer staying disconnected from the grid. The built-in map editor also lets users contribute directly to improving OpenStreetMap data, reinforcing the app’s community-driven philosophy. Setting up CoMaps is simple. Users can download only the maps they need, saving space and allowing seamless offline use. Once downloaded, navigation feels intuitive — nearly identical to Google Maps. 

Directions are clear, and the app supports distance measurements in both kilometers and miles, customizable through the settings. Since its release on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store in July, CoMaps has quickly gained attention as a reliable Google Maps replacement. Its focus on privacy, performance, and transparency appeals to users who are increasingly wary of data tracking. 

For those who value privacy and want a lighter, more ethical alternative to big tech navigation tools, CoMaps offers a balanced blend of simplicity, functionality, and digital independence. It’s free, open-source, and ready to use — without following you everywhere you go.
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data security
Cyber Attacks cybercriminal group CyberSecurity Ransomware Attacks dark web data leak Data Leak data security

Qilin Ransomware Gang Claims Cyberattack on Japanese Beer Giant Asahi

 

The Qilin ransomware group has claimed responsibility for the recent cyberattack on Japanese brewing giant Asahi, adding the company’s name to its dark web data leak site. The cybercriminals alleged that they had stolen over 9,300 files amounting to 27GB of confidential data, including financial documents, employee identification records, contracts, and internal reports. To substantiate their claims, the group published 29 images showing snippets of the stolen files. 

Asahi, Japan’s largest beer manufacturer, employs around 30,000 people and produces approximately 100 million hectoliters annually, generating close to $20 billion in revenue. The company suffered significant operational disruptions following the attack. On September 29, Asahi temporarily halted production at six of its domestic facilities, later confirming on October 3 that a ransomware attack had crippled its systems and led to data exfiltration. 

At first, no threat actor took public credit for the breach. However, the Qilin ransomware group eventually listed Asahi among its victims, likely after ransom negotiations failed. Qilin, which emerged in 2023, is known as a multi-platform ransomware operation capable of targeting both Windows and Linux systems. The group has been associated with other notorious hacker collectives such as Scattered Spider and, more recently, North Korean state-linked actors. 

Qilin’s tactics include exploiting vulnerabilities in edge network devices, deploying credential theft tools, and developing sophisticated encryption mechanisms to hinder recovery. The group has previously targeted high-profile organizations including Nissan, Inotiv, Lee Enterprises, major hospitals within London’s NHS network, and automotive supplier Yangfeng.

In its post, Qilin claimed that the Asahi ransomware attack could result in losses exceeding $335 million due to production halts affecting six breweries and more than thirty beer labels. Despite the claims, Asahi has not verified the authenticity of the leaked files. In a statement to BleepingComputer, a company spokesperson confirmed that the matter remains under active investigation and declined to comment further. 

The company also shared that production of its flagship beer, Super Dry, has resumed through a temporary manual ordering system. While Asahi’s factories are not yet operating at full capacity, shipments for additional labels are expected to restart by October 15. However, as a direct consequence of the cyberattack and ongoing disruptions, Asahi announced it would delay the launch of new products that were initially planned for October 2025. 

The attack on Asahi underscores the growing reach and sophistication of ransomware groups like Qilin, whose increasingly destructive campaigns continue to target global corporations across industries, threatening both economic stability and consumer trust.
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protecting sensitive data
Cyber Security Data Leak Data protection data security Exploits leaked sensitive data protecting sensitive data

Zimbra Zero-Day Exploit Used in ICS File Attacks to Steal Sensitive Data

 

Security researchers have discovered that hackers exploited a zero-day vulnerability in Zimbra Collaboration Suite (ZCS) earlier this year using malicious calendar attachments to steal sensitive data. The attackers embedded harmful JavaScript code inside .ICS files—typically used to schedule and share calendar events—to target vulnerable Zimbra systems and execute commands within user sessions. 

The flaw, identified as CVE-2025-27915, affected ZCS versions 9.0, 10.0, and 10.1. It stemmed from inadequate sanitization of HTML content in calendar files, allowing cybercriminals to inject arbitrary JavaScript code. Once executed, the code could redirect emails, steal credentials, and access confidential user information. Zimbra patched the issue on January 27 through updates (ZCS 9.0.0 P44, 10.0.13, and 10.1.5), but at that time, the company did not confirm any active attacks. 

StrikeReady, a cybersecurity firm specializing in AI-based threat management, detected the campaign while monitoring unusually large .ICS files containing embedded JavaScript. Their investigation revealed that the attacks began in early January, predating the official patch release. In one notable instance, the attackers impersonated the Libyan Navy’s Office of Protocol and sent a malicious email targeting a Brazilian military organization. The attached .ICS file included Base64-obfuscated JavaScript designed to compromise Zimbra Webmail and extract sensitive data. 

Analysis of the payload showed that it was programmed to operate stealthily and execute in asynchronous mode. It created hidden fields to capture usernames and passwords, tracked user actions, and automatically logged out inactive users to trigger data theft. The script exploited Zimbra’s SOAP API to search through emails and retrieve messages, which were then sent to the attacker every four hours. It also added a mail filter named “Correo” to forward communications to a ProtonMail address, gathered contacts and distribution lists, and even hid user interface elements to avoid detection. The malware delayed its execution by 60 seconds and only reactivated every three days to reduce suspicion. 

StrikeReady could not conclusively link the attack to any known hacking group but noted that similar tactics have been associated with a small number of advanced threat actors, including those linked to Russia and the Belarusian state-sponsored group UNC1151. The firm shared technical indicators and a deobfuscated version of the malicious code to aid other security teams in detection efforts. 

Zimbra later confirmed that while the exploit had been used, the scope of the attacks appeared limited. The company urged all users to apply the latest patches, review existing mail filters for unauthorized changes, inspect message stores for Base64-encoded .ICS entries, and monitor network activity for irregular connections. The incident highlights the growing sophistication of targeted attacks and the importance of timely patching and vigilant monitoring to prevent zero-day exploitation.
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Personal Data
Data Breach Data Exposure Data Leak data security leaked sensitive data Malware. Scattered Spider online crimes Telstra Personal Data

Telstra Denies Scattered Spider Data Breach Claims Amid Ransom Threats

 

Telstra, one of Australia’s leading telecommunications companies, has denied claims made by the hacker group Scattered Spider that it suffered a massive data breach compromising nearly 19 million personal records. The company issued a statement clarifying that its internal systems remain secure and that the data in question was scraped from publicly available sources rather than stolen. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Telstra emphasized that no passwords, banking details, or sensitive identification data such as driver’s licenses or Medicare numbers were included in the dataset. 

The claims originated from a dark web post published on October 3 by a group calling itself Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters, an offshoot of Scattered Spider. The group alleged it had stolen more than 100GB of personally identifiable information, including names and physical addresses, and warned that company executives should negotiate to avoid further data exposure. The attackers claimed the alleged breach took place in July 2023 and threatened to release the data publicly if a ransom was not paid by October 13, 2025. They also asserted possession of over 16 million records contained in a file named telstra.sql, which they said was part of a larger collection of 19 million records. 

In a surprising twist, the ransom note also mentioned Salesforce, the global cloud computing company, demanding negotiations begin with its executives. Salesforce swiftly rejected the demand, issuing a statement on October 8 declaring that it “will not engage, negotiate with, or pay any extortion demand,” aligning with global cybersecurity guidelines that discourage ransom payments. 

Scattered Lapsus$ Hunters has made similar claims about breaches involving several major corporations, including Qantas, IKEA, and Google AdSense. Cybersecurity intelligence platforms like Cyble Vision have documented multiple previous instances of alleged Telstra data breaches, some dating back to 2022. In one notable case, a threat actor called UnicornLover67 claimed to possess a dataset containing over 47,000 Telstra employee records, including email addresses and hashed passwords. Telstra has previously confirmed smaller breaches linked to third-party service providers, most recently in 2022, affecting around 132,000 customers. 

However, cybersecurity analysts remain uncertain whether the current claims represent a fresh breach or a recycling of old data. Experts suggest that previously leaked or publicly available datasets may have been repurposed to appear as new evidence of compromise. This possibility aligns with Telstra’s statement that no recent intrusion has occurred. 

The investigation into the alleged breach remains ongoing as the ransom deadline approaches. While Telstra continues to assert that its systems are uncompromised, the persistence of repeated breach claims underscores the growing challenge of misinformation and data reuse in the cybercrime landscape. The Cyber Express has reached out to Telstra for further updates and will continue to monitor the situation as new details emerge.
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Personal Data
AI Chatbot AI technology ChatGPT Cyber Security Data protection data security Gemini Personal Data

AI Adoption Outpaces Cybersecurity Awareness as Users Share Sensitive Data with Chatbots

 

The global surge in the use of AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini is rapidly outpacing efforts to educate users about the cybersecurity risks these technologies pose, according to a new study. The research, conducted by the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) in collaboration with cybersecurity firm CybNet, surveyed over 6,500 individuals across seven countries, including the United States. It found that 65% of respondents now use AI in their everyday lives—a 21% increase from last year—yet 58% said they had received no training from employers on the data privacy and security challenges associated with AI use. 

“People are embracing AI in their personal and professional lives faster than they are being educated on its risks,” said Lisa Plaggemier, Executive Director of the NCA. The study revealed that 43% of respondents admitted to sharing sensitive information, including company financial data and client records, with AI chatbots, often without realizing the potential consequences. The findings highlight a growing disconnect between AI adoption and cybersecurity preparedness, suggesting that many organizations are failing to educate employees on how to use these tools responsibly. 

The NCA-CybNet report aligns with previous warnings about the risks posed by AI systems. A survey by software company SailPoint earlier this year found that 96% of IT professionals believe AI agents pose a security risk, while 84% said their organizations had already begun deploying the technology. These AI agents—designed to automate tasks and improve efficiency—often require access to sensitive internal documents, databases, or systems, creating new vulnerabilities. When improperly secured, they can serve as entry points for hackers or even cause catastrophic internal errors, such as one case where an AI agent accidentally deleted an entire company database. 

Traditional chatbots also come with risks, particularly around data privacy. Despite assurances from companies, most chatbot interactions are stored and sometimes used for future model training, meaning they are not entirely private. This issue gained attention in 2023 when Samsung engineers accidentally leaked confidential data to ChatGPT, prompting the company to ban employee use of the chatbot. 

The integration of AI tools into mainstream software has only accelerated their ubiquity. Microsoft recently announced that AI agents will be embedded into Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, meaning millions of users may interact with AI daily—often without any specialized training in cybersecurity. As AI becomes an integral part of workplace tools, the potential for human error, unintentional data sharing, and exposure to security breaches increases. 

While the promise of AI continues to drive innovation, experts warn that its unchecked expansion poses significant security challenges. Without comprehensive training, clear policies, and safeguards in place, individuals and organizations risk turning powerful productivity tools into major sources of vulnerability. The race to integrate AI into every aspect of modern life is well underway—but for cybersecurity experts, the race to keep users informed and protected is still lagging far behind.
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Personal Information
cybercriminals Data Breach Data Leak Data protection data security Financial Information Personal Information

Where Your Data Goes After a Breach and How to Protect Yourself

 

Data breaches happen every day—and they’re almost never random. Most result from deliberate, targeted cyberattacks or the exploitation of weak security systems that allow cybercriminals to infiltrate networks and steal valuable data. These breaches can expose email addresses, passwords, credit card details, Social Security numbers, medical records, and even confidential business documents. While it’s alarming to think about, understanding what happens after your data is compromised is key to knowing how to protect yourself.  

Once your information is stolen, it essentially becomes a commodity traded for profit. Hackers rarely use the data themselves. Instead, they sell it—often bundled with millions of other records—to other cybercriminals who use it for identity theft, fraud, or extortion. In underground networks, stolen information has its own economy, with prices fluctuating depending on how recent or valuable the data is. 

The dark web is the primary marketplace for stolen information. Hidden from regular search engines, it provides anonymity for sellers and buyers of credit cards, logins, and personal identifiers. Beyond that, secure messaging platforms such as Telegram and Signal are also used to trade stolen data discreetly, thanks to their encryption and privacy features. Some invite-only forums on the surface web also serve as data exchange hubs, while certain hacktivists or whistleblowers may release stolen data publicly to expose unethical practices. Meanwhile, more sophisticated cybercriminal groups operate privately, sharing or selling data directly to trusted clients or other hacker collectives. 

According to reports from cybersecurity firm PrivacyAffairs, dark web markets offer everything from bank login credentials to passports and crypto wallets. Payment card data—often used in “carding” scams—remains one of the most traded items. Similarly, stolen social media and email accounts are in high demand, as they allow attackers to launch phishing campaigns or impersonate victims. Even personal documents such as birth certificates or national IDs are valuable for identity theft schemes. 

Although erasing your personal data from the internet entirely is nearly impossible, there are ways to limit your exposure. Start by using strong, unique passwords managed through a reputable password manager, and enable multi-factor authentication wherever possible. A virtual private network (VPN) adds another layer of protection by encrypting your internet traffic and preventing data collection by third parties. 

It’s also wise to tighten your social media privacy settings and avoid sharing identifiable details such as your workplace, home address, or relationship status. Be cautious about what information you provide to websites and services—especially when signing up or making purchases. Temporary emails, one-time payment cards, and P.O. boxes can help preserve your anonymity online.  

If you discover that your data was part of a breach, act quickly. Monitor all connected accounts for suspicious activity, reset compromised passwords, and alert your bank or credit card provider if financial details were involved. For highly sensitive leaks, such as stolen ID numbers, consider freezing your credit report to prevent identity fraud. Data monitoring services can also help by tracking the dark web for mentions of your personal information.

In today’s digital world, data is currency—and your information is one of the most valuable assets you own. Staying vigilant, maintaining good cyber hygiene, and using privacy tools are your best defenses against becoming another statistic in the global data breach economy.
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personal data leak
Customer Data Cyber Attacks Data Breaches Data Leak Data protection data security Personal Data personal data leak

WestJet Confirms Cyberattack Exposed Passenger Data but No Financial Details

 

WestJet has confirmed that a cyberattack in June compromised certain passenger information, though the airline maintains that the breach did not involve sensitive financial or password data. The incident, which took place on June 13, was attributed to a “sophisticated, criminal third party,” according to a notice issued by the airline to U.S. residents earlier this week. 

WestJet stated that its internal precautionary measures successfully prevented the attackers from gaining access to credit and debit card details, including card numbers, expiry dates, and CVV codes. The airline further confirmed that no user passwords were stolen. However, the company acknowledged that some passengers’ personal information had been exposed. The compromised data included names, contact details, information and documents related to reservations and travel, and details regarding the passengers’ relationship with WestJet. 

“Containment is complete, and additional system and data security measures have been implemented,” WestJet said in an official release. The airline emphasized that analysis of the incident is still ongoing and that it continues to strengthen its cybersecurity framework to safeguard customer data. 

As part of its response plan, WestJet is contacting affected customers to offer support and guidance. The airline has partnered with Cyberscout, a company specializing in identity theft protection and fraud assistance, to help impacted individuals with remediation services. WestJet has also published advisory information on its website to assist passengers who may be concerned about their data.  

In its statement, the airline reassured customers that swift containment measures limited the breach’s impact. “Our cybersecurity teams acted immediately to contain the situation and secure our systems. We take our responsibility to protect customer information very seriously,” the company said. 

WestJet confirmed that it is working closely with law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. The airline also notified U.S. credit reporting agencies—TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax—along with the attorneys general of several U.S. states, Transport Canada, the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, and relevant provincial and international data protection authorities. 

While WestJet maintains that the exposed information does not appear to include sensitive financial or authentication details, cybersecurity experts note that personal identifiers such as names and contact data can still pose privacy and fraud risks if misused. The airline’s transparency and engagement with regulatory agencies reflect an effort to mitigate potential harm and restore public trust. 

The company reiterated that it remains committed to improving its security posture through enhanced monitoring, employee training, and the implementation of additional cybersecurity controls. The investigation into the breach continues, and WestJet has promised to provide further updates as new information becomes available. 

The incident highlights the ongoing threat of cyberattacks against the aviation industry, where companies hold large volumes of personal and travel-related data. Despite the rise in security investments, even well-established airlines remain attractive targets for sophisticated cybercriminals. WestJet’s quick response and cooperation with authorities underscore the importance of rapid containment and transparency in handling such data breaches.
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Privacy
ChatGPT Data Exposure Data Privacy data security Legal challeges Open AI Privacy

Sam Altman Pushes for Legal Privacy Protections for ChatGPT Conversations

 

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has reiterated his call for legal privacy protections for ChatGPT conversations, arguing they should be treated with the same confidentiality as discussions with doctors or lawyers. “If you talk to a doctor about your medical history or a lawyer about a legal situation, that information is privileged,” Altman said. “We believe that the same level of protection needs to apply to conversations with AI.”  

Currently, no such legal safeguards exist for chatbot users. In a July interview, Altman warned that courts could compel OpenAI to hand over private chat data, noting that a federal court has already ordered the company to preserve all ChatGPT logs, including deleted ones. This ruling has raised concerns about user trust and OpenAI’s exposure to legal risks. 

Experts are divided on whether Altman’s vision could become reality. Peter Swire, a privacy and cybersecurity law professor at Georgia Tech, explained that while companies seek liability protection, advocates want access to data for accountability. He noted that full privacy privileges for AI may only apply in “limited circumstances,” such as when chatbots explicitly act as doctors or lawyers. 

Mayu Tobin-Miyaji, a law fellow at the Electronic Privacy Information Center, echoed that view, suggesting that protections might be extended to vetted AI systems operating under licensed professionals. However, she warned that today’s general-purpose chatbots are unlikely to receive such privileges soon. Mental health experts, meanwhile, are urging lawmakers to ban AI systems from misrepresenting themselves as therapists and to require clear disclosure when users are interacting with bots.  

Privacy advocates argue that transparency, not secrecy, should guide AI policy. Tobin-Miyaji emphasized the need for public awareness of how user data is collected, stored, and shared. She cautioned that confidentiality alone will not address the broader safety and accountability issues tied to generative AI. 

Concerns about data misuse are already affecting user behavior. After a May court order requiring OpenAI to retain ChatGPT logs indefinitely, many users voiced privacy fears online. Reddit discussions reflected growing unease, with some advising others to “assume everything you post online is public.” While most ChatGPT conversations currently center on writing or practical queries, OpenAI’s research shows an increase in emotionally sensitive exchanges. 

Without formal legal protections, users may hesitate to share private details, undermining the trust Altman views as essential to AI’s future. As the debate over AI confidentiality continues, OpenAI’s push for privacy may determine how freely people engage with chatbots in the years to come.
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protecting sensitive data
Cyber Security Data Loss Data Privacy Data protection Data Recovery data security protecting sensitive data

Why CEOs Must Go Beyond Backups and Build Strong Data Recovery Plans

 

We are living in an era where fast and effective solutions for data challenges are crucial. Relying solely on backups is no longer enough to guarantee business continuity in the face of cyberattacks, hardware failures, human error, or natural disasters. Every CEO must take responsibility for ensuring that their organization has a comprehensive data recovery plan that extends far beyond simple backups. 

Backups are not foolproof. They can fail, be misconfigured, or become corrupted, leaving organizations exposed at critical moments. Modern attackers are also increasingly targeting backup systems directly, making it impossible to restore data when needed. Even when functioning correctly, traditional backups are usually scheduled once a day and do not run in real time, putting businesses at risk of losing hours of valuable work. Recovery time is equally critical, as lengthy downtime caused by delays in data restoration can severely damage both reputation and revenue.  

Businesses often overestimate the security that traditional backups provide, only to discover their shortcomings when disaster strikes. A strong recovery plan should include proactive measures such as regular testing, simulated ransomware scenarios, and disaster recovery drills to ensure preparedness. Without this, the organization risks significant disruption and financial losses. 

The consequences of poor planning extend beyond operational setbacks. For companies handling sensitive personal or financial data, legal and compliance requirements demand advanced protection and recovery systems. Failure to comply can lead to legal penalties and fines in addition to reputational harm. To counter modern threats, organizations should adopt solutions like immutable backups, air-gapped storage, and secure cloud-based systems. While migrating to cloud storage may seem time-consuming, it offers resilience against physical damage and ensures that data cannot be lost through hardware failures alone. 

An effective recovery plan must be multi-layered. Following the 3-2-1 backup rule—keeping three copies of data, on two different media, with one offline—is widely recognized as best practice. Cloud-based disaster recovery platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform (GCP) should also be considered to provide automated failover and minimize downtime. Beyond technology, employee awareness is essential. IT and support staff should be well-trained and recovery protocols tested quarterly to confirm readiness. 

Communication plays a vital role in data recovery planning. How an organization communicates a disruption to clients can directly influence how much trust is retained. While some customers may inevitably be lost, a clear and transparent communication strategy can help preserve the majority. CEOs should also evaluate cyber insurance options to mitigate financial risks tied to recovery costs. 

Ultimately, backups are just snapshots of data, while a recovery plan acts as a comprehensive playbook for survival when disaster strikes. CEOs who neglect this responsibility risk severe financial losses, regulatory penalties, and even business closure. A well-designed, thoroughly tested recovery plan not only minimizes downtime but also protects revenue, client trust, and the long-term future of the organization.
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Radware
ChatGPT ChatGPT risks Cyber Security Data Leak Data protection data security Gmail Hackers OpenAI Radware

OpenAI Patches ChatGPT Gmail Flaw Exploited by Hackers in Deep Research Attacks

 

OpenAI has fixed a security vulnerability that could have allowed hackers to manipulate ChatGPT into leaking sensitive data from a victim’s Gmail inbox. The flaw, uncovered by cybersecurity company Radware and reported by Bloomberg, involved ChatGPT’s “deep research” feature. This function enables the AI to carry out advanced tasks such as web browsing and analyzing files or emails stored in services like Gmail, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive. While useful, the tool also created a potential entry point for attackers to exploit.  

Radware discovered that if a user requested ChatGPT to perform a deep research task on their Gmail inbox, hackers could trigger the AI into executing malicious instructions hidden inside a carefully designed email. These hidden commands could manipulate the chatbot into scanning private messages, extracting information such as names or email addresses, and sending it to a hacker-controlled server. The vulnerability worked by embedding secret instructions within an email disguised as a legitimate message, such as one about human resources processes. 

The proof-of-concept attack was challenging to develop, requiring a detailed phishing email crafted specifically to bypass safeguards. However, if triggered under the right conditions, the vulnerability acted like a digital landmine. Once ChatGPT began analyzing the inbox, it would unknowingly carry out the malicious code and exfiltrate data “without user confirmation and without rendering anything in the user interface,” Radware explained. 

This type of exploit is particularly difficult for conventional security tools to catch. Since the data transfer originates from OpenAI’s own infrastructure rather than the victim’s device or browser, standard defenses like secure web gateways, endpoint monitoring, or browser policies are unable to detect or block it. This highlights the growing challenge of AI-driven attacks that bypass traditional cybersecurity protections. 

In response to the discovery, OpenAI stated that developing safe AI systems remains a top priority. A spokesperson told PCMag that the company continues to implement safeguards against malicious use and values external research that helps strengthen its defenses. According to Radware, the flaw was patched in August, with OpenAI acknowledging the fix in September.

The findings emphasize the broader risk of prompt injection attacks, where hackers insert hidden commands into web content or messages to manipulate AI systems. Both Anthropic and Brave Software recently warned that similar vulnerabilities could affect AI-enabled browsers and extensions. Radware recommends protective measures such as sanitizing emails to remove potential hidden instructions and enhancing monitoring of chatbot activities to reduce exploitation risks.
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Ransomware attack
Banking data leaks customer data compromise Cyber Attacks Data Leak Data protection data security insight leaked sensitive data Ransomware attack

Insight Partners Ransomware Attack Exposes Data of Thousands of Individuals

 

Insight Partners, a New York-based venture capital and private equity firm, is notifying thousands of individuals that their personal information was compromised in a ransomware attack. The firm initially disclosed the incident in February, confirming that the intrusion stemmed from a sophisticated social engineering scheme that gave attackers access to its systems. Subsequent investigations revealed that sensitive data had also been stolen, including banking details, tax records, personal information of current and former employees, as well as information connected to limited partners, funds, management companies, and portfolio firms. 

The company stated that formal notification letters are being sent to all affected parties, with complimentary credit monitoring and identity protection services offered as part of its response. It clarified that individuals who do not receive a notification letter by the end of September 2025 can assume their data was not impacted. According to filings with California’s attorney general, which were first reported by TechCrunch, the intrusion occurred in October 2024. Attackers exfiltrated data before encrypting servers on January 16, 2025, in what appears to be the culmination of a carefully planned ransomware campaign. Insight Partners explained that the attacker gained access to its environment on or around October 25, 2024, using advanced social engineering tactics. 

Once inside, the threat actor began stealing data from affected servers. Months later, at around 10:00 a.m. EST on January 16, the same servers were encrypted, effectively disrupting operations. While the firm has confirmed the theft and encryption, no ransomware group has claimed responsibility for the incident so far. A separate filing with the Maine attorney general disclosed that the breach impacted 12,657 individuals. The compromised information poses risks ranging from financial fraud to identity theft, underscoring the seriousness of the incident. 

Despite the scale of the attack, Insight Partners has not yet responded to requests for further comment on how it intends to manage recovery efforts or bolster its cybersecurity posture going forward. Insight Partners is one of the largest venture capital firms in the United States, with over $90 billion in regulatory assets under management. Over the past three decades, it has invested in more than 800 software and technology startups globally, making it a key player in the tech investment ecosystem. 

The breach marks a significant cybersecurity challenge for the firm as it balances damage control, regulatory compliance, and the trust of its investors and partners.
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Simulation
Cyber Security Cybersecurity data security Digital Twins IT threat landscape Simulation

Digital Twins: Benefits and the Cybersecurity Risks They Bring

 

Digital twins—virtual digital counterparts of physical objects, people, or processes—are rapidly being adopted by organizations as tools for simulation, testing, and decision-making. The concept traces its roots to NASA’s physical replicas of spacecraft in the 1960s, but today’s digital twins have evolved into sophisticated frameworks that bridge physical and digital systems, offering the power to predict real-world outcomes and inform business strategy. 

David Shaw, Intuitus Corp. CEO and Digital Twin Consortium (DTC) working group co-chair, notes that these systems now do much more than simply mirror physical systems; they actively link both worlds, enabling predictive analytics at scale. 

Greg Porter, Principal Solutions Architect at Sev1Tech, describes digital twin technology as still emerging, but increasingly central to business innovation. Their key advantage lies in the ability to simulate future scenarios and outcomes without disrupting the actual physical assets, allowing companies to test changes, interventions, or potential failures in a risk-free environment.

Industry applications are diverse: in healthcare, digital twins can model the effects of new medications or surgical procedures before implementation, while other organizations use digital twins to map employee interactions with physical assets, providing insights into cybersecurity attack surfaces and operational efficiencies. The cost to implement these systems varies widely, from a few hundred dollars for basic models to multi-million-dollar deployments for complex, mission-critical infrastructures. 

However, while digital twins unlock new capabilities in prototyping, testing, and risk management, they also introduce significant cybersecurity risks. Porter warns that, particularly in “full-loop” digital twin environments—where data flows both from the physical system into the digital twin and back again—organizations open a new attack vector from the digital realm directly into physical assets. If the digital twin infrastructure is insecure, threat actors could manipulate data in ways that affect real-world systems, potentially leading to loss of control or catastrophic outcomes. 

Kayne McGladrey, CISO in residence at Hyperproof, highlights that intellectual property theft is another rising threat; access to a digital twin could allow attackers to reverse-engineer sensitive business processes or product designs, providing competitors or nation-state actors with a strategic advantage. In sectors such as aerospace, defense, and critical infrastructure, the consequences of such breaches could be both severe and far-reaching. 

Mitigation tips 

To secure digital twins, organizations must implement robust data controls, segmenting and monitoring digital twin environments to prevent lateral movement by attackers. McGladrey recommends adopting “classic cybersecurity” measures with some enhancements: deploying phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication, tightly controlling user access, and maintaining comprehensive activity logs to support forensic investigation if an incident occurs. These steps, he notes, are not overly complex but do require deliberate planning to ensure that the security of both digital and physical assets is maintained. 

As digital twin adoption accelerates, organizations must weigh their operational benefits against the new risks they introduce. By understanding the full scope of both opportunities and threats, and by embedding strong cybersecurity principles from the outset, businesses can harness digital twins’ transformative potential without exposing themselves to undue risk.
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New York Times
Critical Data Data Breach Data Leaks data security Data Stolen DevOps Leak Source Code Mercedes Benz Microsoft New York Times

DevOps data breaches expose Microsoft, Schneider Electric, Mercedes-Benz, and New York Times

 

Source code forms the backbone of every digital enterprise, and platforms such as GitHub and Atlassian are trusted to safeguard this critical data. Yet, organizations must remember that under the Shared Responsibility Model, users retain accountability for the security of their data. Even the smallest mistake can trigger a devastating cascade, from large-scale leaks of proprietary code to stolen credentials and severe reputational and financial consequences. 

Recent breaches across industries highlight how valuable DevOps environments have become to cybercriminals. Companies as diverse as Mercedes-Benz, The New York Times, and Schneider Electric have all suffered from security lapses, showing that innovation without adequate protection leaves no organization immune. The growing threat landscape underscores the scale of the problem, with cyberattacks occurring roughly every 39 seconds worldwide. IBM has observed a 56% increase in active ransomware groups, while Cybersecurity Ventures predicts that cybercrime costs will rise from $10.5 trillion in 2025 to more than $15 trillion by 2029. The CISO’s Guide to DevOps Threats further identifies technology, fintech, and media as the sectors most at risk, with 59% of ransomware activity concentrated in the United States. Data breaches typically ripple beyond the initial target, affecting partners, customers, and supply chains. 

The ransomware group HellCat has demonstrated how exposed credentials can become a doorway to widespread damage. By exploiting stolen Atlassian Jira logins, they infiltrated global enterprises including Schneider Electric, Orange Group, Telefonica, Jaguar Land Rover, and Ascom. Schneider Electric alone had 40GB of data stolen in 2024, including user records, email addresses, and sensitive project information, with a ransom demand of $125,000. Telefonica was breached twice in 2025, losing over 100GB of internal documents and communications. Similar compromises at Jaguar Land Rover and Ascom revealed thousands of employee records and sensitive corporate data, illustrating how poor credential management fuels recurring attacks. 

Mismanaged access tokens also pose severe risks. Mercedes-Benz faced exposure when an employee accidentally embedded a GitHub token in a public repository, potentially granting attackers access to confidential assets like API keys and database credentials. Threat actors have also weaponized GitHub itself, using trojanized proof-of-concept code and malicious npm dependencies to exfiltrate hundreds of thousands of WordPress credentials and cloud keys. Even unexpected groups, such as fans of Disney’s discontinued Club Penguin, exploited exposed Confluence logins to access corporate files and developer resources. The New York Times confirmed that leaked credentials on a third-party code platform exposed 270GB of internal data, though it reported no operational disruption. 

The cumulative impact of these incidents is staggering, with terabytes of stolen data, millions of records exposed, and reputational harm that far exceeds immediate costs. As regulatory penalties intensify and compliance standards grow stricter, the financial fallout of DevOps data breaches is likely to escalate further, leaving organizations with little choice but to prioritize security at the core of their operations.
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Hacker attack
Customer Data Exposed Cyber Security Cybersecurity Precautions Data Hackers Data Leak data security Ethical Hacker Hacker attack

Restaurant Brands International faces cybersecurity flaws as ethical hackers expose data security risks

 

Restaurant Brands International (RBI), the parent company of Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes, has come under scrutiny after two ethical hackers uncovered major cybersecurity flaws across its digital systems. The researchers, known by their handles BobDaHacker and BobTheShoplifter, revealed how weak security practices left RBI’s global operations, spanning more than 30,000 outlets, dangerously exposed. Their findings, once detailed in a blog that has since been archived, highlight critical oversights in RBI’s approach to data security.  

Among the most concerning discoveries was a password hard-coded into the HTML of an equipment ordering site, a lapse that would typically raise alarms in even the most basic security audits. In another instance, the hackers found that the drive-through tablet system used the password “admin,” a default credential considered one of the most insecure in the industry. Such weak safeguards left RBI vulnerable to unauthorized access, calling into question the company’s investment in even the most fundamental cybersecurity measures. 

The hackers went further, demonstrating access to employee accounts, internal configurations, and raw audio files from drive-through conversations. These recordings, sometimes containing fragments of personal information, were later processed by artificial intelligence to evaluate customer interactions and staff performance. While the hackers emphasized that they did not retain or misuse any data, their ability to reach such sensitive systems underscores the potential risks had malicious actors discovered the same flaws. 

Their probe also extended into unexpected areas, such as software linked to bathroom rating screens in restaurants. While they joked about leaving fake reviews remotely, the researchers remained committed to responsible disclosure, ensuring no disruption to RBI’s operations. Nevertheless, the ease with which they navigated these systems illustrates how deeply embedded vulnerabilities had gone unnoticed. 

Other problems included APIs that allowed unrestricted sign-ups, plain-text emails containing passwords, and methods to escalate privileges to administrator access across platforms. These oversights are precisely the types of risks that established cybersecurity practices like ransomware protection and malware prevention are designed to prevent. According to the ethical hackers, RBI’s overall digital defenses could best be described as “catastrophic,” comparing them humorously to a paper Whopper wrapper in the rain. 

Although RBI reportedly addressed the vulnerabilities after being informed, the company has not publicly acknowledged the hackers or commented on the severity of the issues. This lack of transparency raises concerns about whether the incident will lead to lasting security reforms or if it will be treated as a quick fix before moving on. For a multinational corporation handling sensitive customer interactions daily, the revelations serve as a stark warning about the consequences of neglecting cybersecurity fundamentals.
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