Popular dating website, Adult FriendFinder, has been hit by a massive data breach attack which has comprised personal details of more than 4 million users of the website’s 64 million users.
According to UK’s Channel 4 News, a hacker posted data relating to users of Adult FriendFinder on a forum on the dark web. The compromised user details consist of the usual names, email addresses, physical addresses, IP addresses as well as details of users’ sexual preferences which include whether they are gay or straight, and whether they are seeking extramarital affairs. The report also noted that within hours of the data being leaked, other hackers on the forum said they intended to hit victims with spam emails.
Shaun Harper, one of the data breach victims, said “The site seemed OK, but when I got into it I realised it wasn’t really for me, I was looking for something longer term. But by that time I’d already given my information. You couldn’t get into the site without handing over information.
“I deleted my account, so I thought the information had gone. These sites are meant to be secure.”
The owner of the dating site, California based FriendFinder Networks, said in a statement that “FriendFinder Networks Inc. has only just been made aware of this potential issue and understands and fully appreciates the seriousness of the issue.
“We have already begun working closely with law enforcement and have launched a comprehensive investigation with the help of leading third-party forensics expert, Mandiant.
“Until the investigation is completed, it will be difficult to determine with certainty the full scope of the incident, but we will continue to work vigilantly to address this potential issue and will provide updates as we learn more from our investigation.
“We cannot speculate further about this issue, but rest assured, we pledge to take the appropriate steps needed to protect our customers if they are affected.”
Mandiant has declined to comment further on the issue.
FriendFinder Networks also operates a number of other online sites and dating services including Amigos.com, BigChurch.com and SeniorFriendFinder.com.
