In one of the largest data breaches in recent memory, sensitive information—including passwords—of over 180 million users has been compromised. Affected platforms include tech giants like Google, Facebook, and Apple, as well as social media networks Instagram and Snapchat.
The breach has prompted an urgent alert from Pakistan’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team (N-CERT), which warned that data from government portals may also be among the stolen information.
Major Security Risk
N-CERT reported that the stolen data is currently stored in an unsecured database, making it vulnerable to automated cyberattacks. These could lead to identity theft, account takeovers, and widespread digital intrusions affecting both individuals and institutions.
“Passwords should never be shared via email or stored in unsecured files,” the advisory stressed.
Steps for Pakistani Users and Institutions
N-CERT urged immediate action to mitigate risk, including:
- Changing all account passwords immediately
- Enabling two-factor authentication
- Using secure password managers
- Regularly updating antivirus and security software
- Monitoring accounts for unusual activity
- Reporting any suspicious incidents promptly
The advisory also called on government departments and sensitive organizations to identify and notify affected users without delay.
National Digital Infrastructure at Risk
Failure to act swiftly could compromise Pakistan’s national digital infrastructure, potentially disrupting critical public services, the advisory warned.
Cybersecurity experts echoed the call for vigilance, noting that targeted attacks using the leaked data could intensify in the coming days.
