SAN FRANCISCO (Diya TV) — Security researchers have confirmed what may be the largest data breach in history. The leak exposed more than 16 billion login credentials, including usernames and passwords linked to Apple, Google, Facebook, GitHub, Telegram, and other major platforms.
Importantly, researchers told Cybernews that this breach involves fresh, organized data that offers cybercriminals a blueprint for large-scale attacks. Unlike old breaches that resurface, this one contains newly stolen credentials ready for misuse.
The breach includes at least 30 massive datasets. Each contains millions or even billions of records. For example, one of the largest datasets holds more than 3.5 billion login credentials. The data spans social media accounts, VPNs, developer platforms, corporate logins, and government services.
Moreover, most of this information is structured in a simple, dangerous format: URLs, usernames, and passwords combined in one place. This makes it easy for hackers to launch phishing campaigns, account takeovers, and identity theft.
Researchers said some of the data appeared in unsecured cloud storage systems, including Elasticsearch servers and object storage platforms, before disappearing again. One dataset contained over 455 million records linked to the Russian Federation. Another dataset, with more than 60 million records, referred to Telegram.
“This is not just a leak,” researchers warned. “It’s a blueprint for mass exploitation.”
Unlike older leaks, this breach provides fresh, weaponizable information. Cybernews researcher Vilius Petkauskas emphasized that these aren’t recycled breaches. Instead, multiple infostealers likely gathered the data in recent months.
As a result, the scale and structure of this leak give cybercriminals unprecedented tools. They can now access nearly any type of online service imaginable, from social media profiles to government portals.
In light of this breach, experts stress that users must act fast. Darren Guccione, CEO of Keeper Security, called the leak a reminder of how easily sensitive data can become exposed online. He said the breach is likely only part of a larger problem. Misconfigured cloud servers may already be leaking far more data, he warned.
Therefore, Guccione encouraged individuals to use password managers, enable multi-factor authentication, and monitor for password exposure through dark web services. At the same time, he urged organizations to move toward zero-trust security models that restrict access and require strict authentication at every step.
Javvad Malik, lead security advocate at KnowBe4, agreed. He said cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Companies must protect users, and users must stay vigilant against phishing attempts and other attacks. Malik also urged people to create strong, unique passwords and switch on multi-factor authentication whenever possible.
As threats rise, tech companies like Google are urging users to switch from passwords to passkeys. Passkeys rely on biometric data or device-based security, making them far harder for criminals to steal. Furthermore, the FBI has reminded users not to click links in suspicious text messages as smishing attacks increase.
Security professionals say the best defense is to act now. Change your passwords immediately, especially if you use the same password across multiple accounts. Start using a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords. If your services support passkeys, consider making the switch for added protection.
Don’t wait until your data surfaces in one of these massive leaks. Once exposed, your personal and financial information could fall into the wrong hands.
In the end, this breach shows that no one is immune. But by taking simple steps today, you can safeguard your digital identity from tomorrow’s attacks.
