A large-scale leak of passwords has been detected, which threatens the safety of Internet users. The RockYou2024 compilation contains almost 10 billion unique combinations that can be used for malicious attacks.
Massive Password Leak
Database Discovery
A group of researchers from Cybernews discovered on a popular hacking forum a huge database containing 9,948,575,739 unique passwords of users from around the world. Experts warn that this information poses a serious threat to those who have a habit of using the same passwords for different accounts.
Leak source
The file named rockyou2024.txt was posted on July 4 by a forum user with the nickname ObamaCare. This user signed up in late May 2024, but has already shared other sensitive information, including information about employees at the law firm Simmons & Simmons, a link to the online casino AskGamblers, and applications for admission to Rowan College in Burlington County.
Potential threats
Cybernews experts emphasize that this compilation significantly increases the risk of credential-spoofing attacks. Attackers can use this database to perform brute-force attacks and gain unauthorized access to various online accounts of users whose passwords are contained in this dataset.
Compilation history
The analysis showed that passwords were collected from various sources on the Internet for two decades. The database was periodically updated by attackers. In 2021, it contained 8.4 billion passwords, and the latest update increased its volume by 15%, adding another 1.5 billion combinations.
Possible consequences
Cybernews experts warn that the ten billion RockYou2024 compilation can be used to attack any system that does not have adequate protection against brute force attacks. Additionally, when combined with other database leaks on hacker forums and marketplaces that contain user email addresses and other credentials, RockYou2024 can lead to large-scale data leaks, financial fraud, and identity theft.
Glossary
- Cybernews is a research company specializing in cyber security and digital threat analysis
- RockYou2024 - the name of a large-scale database containing almost 10 billion unique passwords
- ObamaCare - the pseudonym of a hacker forum user who published database
- Simmons & Simmons - an international law firm whose employee data was previously published
- AskGamblers - an online casino, the link to which was shared by the hacker
Link
Questions Answered
What is RockYou2024 and why is it dangerous?
How long did this password database take?
What are the potential consequences of this database being leaked?
Who discovered this database and where was it located?
How can I protect myself from potential threats related to RockYou2024?
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Discussion of the topic – Shock! 10 billion passwords leaked on hacker forum
Researchers have discovered a database of nearly 10 billion unique passwords on a popular hacking forum, posing a serious threat to users who reuse passwords.
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Oleksandr
Wow, 10 billion passwords! This is almost every person on the planet. It's scary to think how many accounts are at risk. 😱 Does anyone know how to check if my password is in this database?
Maria
Oleksandr, there are special services for verification, such as HaveIBeenPwned. But the main thing is not to panic, but to change passwords to complex and unique ones for each site. I use a password manager, very convenient! 💪
Pierre
I wonder how these hackers collected passwords for 20 years? Apparently, they used various methods - from phishing to hacking servers. Maria is right about the password manager, it really is a lifesaver. Which one do you use?
Maria
Pierre, I use LastPass. It is convenient because it synchronizes between all devices. It also generates complex passwords automatically. Although a bit worried after their recent data leak... 😅 Can you recommend something else?
Hans
All this is nonsense. I have been using the same password for 15 years and nothing, alive and well. Why complicate your life? Hackers are a myth to sell antiviruses. 🙄
Sophia
Hans, are you serious? 😳 It's very risky! Imagine if someone gets access to your mail or bank account. Maria, I've heard good things about Bitwarden - it's free and open source. Maybe you will try?
Carlos
Guys, I think the future is biometrics. Soon we will forget what passwords are. Fingerprint or face scan - and you are in the system. Safe and convenient! 🖐️👁️
Oleksandr
Carlos, sounds cool, but biometrics can also be faked. Do you remember the story when the thieves made a mask of the iPhone owner's face and unlocked his phone? 😱 Apparently, there is no perfect solution, it is necessary to combine different methods of protection.