The biggest breach in history: hackers stole 16 billion passwords from Apple, Google and government services

The world has recorded the largest data leak in the history of digital security – researchers reported 16 billion stolen accounts, including passwords to the largest online services. The list includes Apple, Google, Facebook, Telegram, GitHub, and even government portals.

This is reported by Forbes .

According to preliminary data, researchers found 30 massive databases, each containing from tens of millions to over 3.5 billion records. All of this data was likely stolen using malware that automatically collects logins and passwords from infected devices.

Most of the records are new. This is not a rehash of old leaks , but “fresh, exploitable intelligence,” analysts warn. Passwords are already being sold on the darknet for pennies, opening the door to millions of accounts for attackers.

In the format “link – login – password” access to the following appeared in public access:

• Apple ID, Gmail, Facebook, Telegram, GitHub;
• VPN services;
• Developer accounts;
• Government online portals of different countries.

“This is not just a leak, it is an instruction for mass exploitation,” the experts said.

Experts recommend changing all passwords, activating two-factor authentication , and switching to more secure login methods, including passkeys.

Experts also urge the use of password managers and darknet monitoring services that can warn about data compromise.

In particular, organizations are advised to implement Zero Trust access models so that no password becomes a point of breach for critical systems.

It was previously reported that the leak of the TeleMessage messenger, used by former US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, turned out to be much larger than expected . The hacked system revealed the data of at least 60 unique US government officials, including employees of the Secret Service, Customs, diplomatic institutions and even the White House.

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