10 billion passwords leaked, experts warn: Update your password

The largest password leak in history occurred last week. A massive dataset containing 10 billion passwords was shared on the dark web. Experts have issued a call to update your passwords without delay.

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This leak, dubbed "RockYou2024" on a prominent hacking forum, compiled and shared nearly 10 billion passwords in plain text.

The dataset, which contains approximately 10 billion passwords obtained from leaks worldwide, is 45 gigabytes in size. 

This dataset covers a wide range, from online and offline services to internet-facing cameras and industrial hardware.

WARNING FROM EXPERTS

Cyber experts have warned people to urgently update their passwords after a hacker uploaded billions of login credentials to a computer.

Researchers who uncovered the leak said this information could allow hackers to target all kinds of systems not protected by strict security software, including online and offline services, online cameras, and industrial hardware. 

Users need to immediately reset their leaked passwords across all their accounts and choose strong, unique combinations that are not used on multiple platforms.

They should also enable multi-factor authentication, which provides a second level of security by requiring verification such as facial recognition or a PIN in addition to the password.

MOST USED PASSWORDS

New research by Nordpass has revealed that passwords used by millions of internet users can be cracked quite easily by hackers.

According to the research in question, approximately 70 percent of the world's most popular passwords can be cracked in less than a second. This is because the password preferred by millions of users remains '123456', just as it was last year.