Password Breach

(2 Minute Read) — At Unitus, your safety and peace of mind are always top priority. You may have seen the recent headlines: more than 16 billion login records have been found exposed online. While unrelated to Unitus, it’s being called one of the largest data leaks ever, and it affects everything from email and social media accounts to online shopping and streaming. 

Exposed Databases Discovered

Security researchers discovered 30 exposed databases on the internet, containing billions of stolen login credentials. These records weren’t from an old leak—they were freshly stolen using malware that quietly captures usernames and passwords when people log in to websites. 

Experts say the breach included logins for major services like: 

• Google, Apple, Facebook, and Instagram 

• Amazon, PayPal, and online banks 

• Streaming services, messaging apps, and even government portals 

How Hackers Benefit from Password Breaches

As you know, a hacker having access to your login credentials can be disastrous. They can pretend to be you online, use your logins to try to access your other accounts, and trick you with personalized scam emails or texts. This kind of leak makes cybercriminals’ attempts even more convincing. 

Take Action Against a Password Breach

Now is the time to consider changing your passwords – making sure you don’t recycle passwords for different online accounts. A password manager can help you keep track. You should also use two-factor authentication; that’s when you get a second verification when you try to log into an account, usually like a text message or app code. Be sure you’re staying alert as well! Ignore and report unexpected messages asking you to verify your information or to click on unfamiliar links. 

Visit our Security Center for more information on what to watch out for. And changing your passwords is a good first step. If you ever suspect fraud or have questions about your account security, our team is here to help online, in the branch, or by phone.