16 Billion Passwords Leaked in Massive Data Breach, Experts Warn

Colossal Data Breach Exposes 16 Billion Logins, Sparks Shift Toward Local Password Security

  • A large-scale data breach exposed over 16 billion login records across major technology and government platforms.
  • Password information connected to Apple, Facebook, Google, and other services was compromised.
  • Cybersecurity experts warn that the breach could lead to account takeover, identity theft, and phishing attacks.
  • Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino announced the company’s plan to release a locally stored password manager, PearPass.
  • The event has raised concerns about cloud-based data security and increased interest in local, device-based protection methods.

A large data breach has exposed the passwords and credentials of accounts with Apple, Facebook, Google, several government services, and other social media platforms. Researchers report that over 16 billion login records became available, giving cybercriminals new opportunities to access private accounts and sensitive information.

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The breach is described by Cybernews as a “colossal” incident that enables mass exploitation of stolen records. Experts explain that these exposed records offer cybercriminals new ways to commit account takeovers, identity theft, and highly targeted phishing scams. The report says, “With over 16 billion login records exposed, cybercriminals now have unprecedented access to personal credentials that can be used for account takeover, identity theft, and highly targeted phishing.”

This incident, reported as one of the biggest data breaches to date, prompted Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino to call for moving away from password storage in the cloud. Ardoino wrote on X that, “The cloud has failed us. Again. It’s time to ditch the cloud,” and shared an advertisement for PearPass, a password manager developed by Tether that is fully local (stored on the user’s device), and open-source.

Cyberattacks and data leaks remain a significant issue for cryptocurrency companies, which are responsible for safeguarding digital assets of their users. Recent high-profile attacks have driven demand for solutions that keep user credentials private and secure.

Switching from cloud-based security to passwords and cryptographic keys kept on a user’s device can reduce the risks associated with Hacking centralized platforms. This approach protects sensitive data such as emails, physical addresses, and phone numbers from exposure if a centralized service is breached.

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Tether reported a $13 billion profit last year, mostly from interest generated by the funds backing its $155 billion stablecoin. The company is now expanding its services in response to possible changes in U.S. regulations that could allow technology companies, banks, and retailers to enter the stablecoin market. Meanwhile, Circle, Tether’s main competitor, has seen a recent surge in its stock price, encouraged by new U.S. legislative action supporting stablecoins.

In an interview with Anthony Pompliano, Ardoino said, “If we are living in a disaster scenario, we need to be able to have technology that works locally first.” He indicated that Tether would launch another new product later this year.

Recent breaches highlight ongoing challenges in digital security. Industry leaders suggest users consider local password storage solutions and increased vigilance to protect their personal data from cyber threats.

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