Instagram Data Leak Exposes 17.5 Million Users’ Sensitive Information
A major Instagram data breach has reportedly exposed sensitive personal information of nearly 17.5 million users worldwide. According to antivirus firm Malwarebytes, the leaked data includes usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, and in some cases, home addresses. The report was highlighted by Engadget.
Malwarebytes stated that the compromised data appears to have been collected for sale on the dark web, potentially enabling cybercriminals to conduct phishing, identity theft, or account takeovers. The firm discovered the database during routine dark web monitoring and suspects that a 2024 Instagram API vulnerability may be linked to the breach.
Recently, many users have noticed multiple password reset emails from Instagram, signaling a potential connection to this data leak. So far, Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has not issued an official statement regarding the incident.
Security experts are urging users to enable two-factor authentication, update passwords, and regularly review logged-in devices to safeguard their accounts.
DBTech/BMT/OR
