Instagram Data Breach Exposes Personal Details of 17.5 Million Users, Malwarebytes Warns

An alleged Instagram data breach has reportedly compromised the personal information of 17.5 million users, raising fresh concerns about online privacy and account security.

Users who have recently received multiple password reset emails from Instagram are not alone. According to cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes, a large dataset containing sensitive user information has surfaced online.

The company said the exposed data includes usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and additional personal details, potentially putting millions of users at risk.

Instagram user data allegedly for sale on the dark web

Malwarebytes revealed that the compromised information is “available for sale on the dark web and can be abused by cybercriminals.” The firm said it identified the exposure during a routine dark web scan conducted as part of its threat monitoring activities.

In an email sent to customers, Malwarebytes explained that the incident appears to be linked to “a potential incident related to an Instagram API exposure from 2024,” suggesting the breach may stem from vulnerabilities dating back to last year.

Password reset emails raise alarm among users

Following the reported breach, the platform users have experienced a surge in password reset requests. Malwarebytes warned that the leaked information could be used in more advanced cyberattacks, including phishing schemes and potential account takeovers.

Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has not issued an official statement regarding the latest reported incident. However, this is not the first time the tech giant has faced scrutiny over data security and user privacy concerns.

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Cybersecurity experts continue to urge users to take precautionary steps, including enabling two-factor authentication, updating passwords, and reviewing logged-in devices through Meta’s Accounts Center.

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