San Francisco Data Broker Springs a Leak: 170 Million Records Exposed!

Hot Take:

Well, it looks like People Data Labs (PDL) decided to throw another massive data barbecue, and everyone’s invited—whether they want to be or not! With 170 million records leaked, it seems PDL is competing for the “Messiest Data Handler of the Year” award. If your personal history is suddenly more accessible than your grandma’s secret recipe, you know who to thank!

Key Points:

• Researchers at Cybernews found a colossal data leak, potentially tied to People Data Labs (PDL).
• The leak affects over 170 million records, exposing sensitive information like names, phone numbers, and employment history.
• An unprotected Elasticsearch server is identified as the leak’s source, suggesting poor data management.
• PDL has a history of data leaks, with a notable incident in October 2019 affecting 622 million individuals.
• TechRadar Pro reached out to PDL for confirmation but received no immediate response.

Another Day, Another Data Leak

Cybernews researchers have done it again, uncovering yet another treasure trove of exposed data. This time, the jackpot consists of over 170 million records, potentially linked to People Data Labs (PDL). If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to have your entire life story available for free, now’s your chance to find out! The leaked info includes full names, phone numbers, emails, locations, and even professional summaries. It’s like LinkedIn on steroids but with a dark twist—identity theft risks included!

Elasticsearch Strikes Again

Let’s talk about that unprotected Elasticsearch server, the unsung hero of this epic data spill. This time it’s not just any server; it’s the Fort Knox of personal data with the security of a cardboard box. Discovered on June 25, this server is essentially the digital equivalent of leaving your front door wide open with a neon sign saying “Come on in!” Whether it’s a third-party blunder or a direct PDL mishap, one thing’s clear: someone dropped the ball.

Déjà Vu All Over Again

Remember 2019? Ah, the good old days when PDL last made headlines for a massive data leak involving a billion records. Over 622 million individuals found their personal data floating around the internet like lost balloons. Back then, PDL washed its hands clean, claiming zero responsibility. Fast forward to today, and it looks like history is repeating itself. If this new leak is indeed fresh and not some repackaged 2019 leftovers, then PDL might need a crash course in Data Security 101.

Digital Hygiene 101

If you suspect you’re among the 170 million unfortunate souls caught in this data debacle, it’s time to take some precautions. Start by changing your passwords regularly and using a trustworthy password manager. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible and keep a hawk-eye on your accounts for any suspicious activity. Think of it as putting a padlock on your digital life; it’s better than the alternative of waking up to find your identity has been hijacked.

Crickets from PDL

TechRadar Pro, being the responsible journalists that they are, reached out to People Data Labs for a comment on this latest mess. The response? Crickets. Absolute radio silence. Either PDL is too busy trying to plug the leak, or they’ve decided to adopt the “head-in-the-sand” strategy. Either way, don’t hold your breath for a quick resolution or an apology anytime soon.