The data breach that occurred on September 25th affected 50 million Facebook accounts. This attack on the system led to the exposure of information affecting these users. This month, Google+ experience a security flaw that leaves many at risk. The CEO speaks out on what information these attackers had access too and the number of people affected and how Facebook and Google will address the situation. 

Facebook

When the news first broke, it was said that around 50 million people were affected by this breach. New records show that number decreasing to about 30 million. 

When the breach first happened, the social media networks logged about 90 million users out of their account. 

What information was stolen?

This escapade supposedly started with the attackers using an automated method of accessing tokens from their friend’s accounts that they already controlled and worked their way up to 30 million. 

The 29 million effected leaked information including email and phone numbers. Of that, 14 million users had additional information breached. This included details such as gender, religion, device types, birthdays, search history and locations. 

Google+

A few days ago, Google revealed it had been shutting down the consumer version of Google+ because of a security flaw and lack of usage.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Google had a data breach that exposed thousands of users earlier this year. They decided not to report it to avoid scrutiny. 

An internal report noted that a project strobe discovered a bug in one of the site’s APIs. This may have affected upwards of 500,000 accounts. However, there was no evidence that this was a direct issue of the API.

After this incident, Google decided not to pursue this unpopular social account.

Takeaways

We can learn a few things from these large data breaches regarding our own security and our business image. 

Always get the word out! Communicated the problem quickly and clearly by sending clear messages. Communication with potential victims requires great care. This requires personalization and utmost attention.

With this tragedy, you should have an information and security policy in place. You can do so by investing in network defense systems and ensuring your policies are in place with every employee or person in contact with your business.

If you need assistance with designing your site to ensure your customers can bestow trust in your business, contact Blue Archer.