In June 2025, cybersecurity experts made a shocking discovery: “16 Billion Password Leaked”. A massive cache of over 16 billion login credentials, including emails and passwords from platforms like Apple, Google, Facebook, Telegram, Microsoft, and even government and banking services, had been exposed online.
The breach was not from one single source. Instead, the data had been quietly collected over the years by malware infections and previous cyberattacks, then compiled into a single massive database. This discovery was even more alarming because the database was briefly accessible on the open Internet, where anyone could view or download it. These leaked credentials include email addresses, usernames, and passwords, many of which are still active.
Many people still haven’t heard this news. But it’s being described as the most extensive compilation of stolen credentials ever found, and it should be a wake-up call for both individuals and businesses. This is not just a problem happening somewhere else. If you use digital services, your login details may already be part of this breach, even if you haven’t been personally hacked. In today’s world, good cyber hygiene is a necessity, not a choice.
What Happened?
Let’s break it down step-by-step so you understand how 16 Billion Password Leaked and why it matters:
Step 1: Silent Theft by Malware
Over the past few years, InfoStealer malware, small programs that secretly run on infected devices, have been silently stealing usernames and passwords from computers and browsers. These programs often spread through:
- Fake software downloads
- Phishing emails
- Malicious websites
Step 2: Data Sold or Shared on the Dark Web
The stolen information was sold or traded between hackers on underground forums and the dark web. Some of it came from previous data breaches involving well-known companies. Over time, this created thousands of separate data sets.
Step 3: Everything Compiled Into One Mega Database
In June 2025, someone (or a group) compiled 26 billion records, cleaned duplicates, and created a collection of over 16 billion unique credentials. This giant database was briefly stored on an unsecured online platform, allowing cybersecurity researchers from Cybernews to access and analyze it.
Step 4: Public Exposure Detected by Experts
The Cybernews team discovered this leak during one of their regular scans for exposed data. Once they verified the size and scale of the data, they issued a public report. The researchers warned that the database included credentials from users across the globe and could easily be used in:
- Identity theft
- Business email compromise (BEC)
- Social media hijacking
- Financial fraud
- Account takeovers
Step 5: The Data May Still Be Circulating
Although the exposed database was taken offline, experts believe many cybercriminals may have already downloaded it. In other words, even though it’s no longer public, the damage is likely already done, and some credentials are still valid.
Why Should You Care?
You might think, “My accounts haven’t been hacked, so I’m fine.” But the truth is that you may not even know your credentials are exposed until it’s too late. This incident is not just a global cybersecurity issue. It’s a personal and professional security risk for everyone.
Here’s why this leak should concern you, whether you’re an individual or a business owner in Saudi Arabia:
- Attackers use leaked data for new attacks. Even if your email or password was exposed years ago, hackers can still use it for identity theft or business email compromise.
- Reused passwords create a chain reaction. If you use the same password across multiple platforms, just one exposed login can give attackers access to all your accounts.
- Organizations face serious risks. Attackers who access internal systems using stolen employee credentials can steal data, disrupt operations, or demand ransom.
How You Can Stay Safe Now
Here are practical, effective steps you can take today to reduce your risk:
1. Change Your Passwords
Start by changing the passwords for important accounts like:
- Online banking
- Social media
- Cloud storage
- Work and admin portals
Focus first on the accounts that hold personal or financial information.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords
A secure password should:
- Be at least 12 characters long
- Include letters, numbers, and symbols
- Be different for each account
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Even if a hacker knows your password, MFA adds an extra barrier, like a code sent to your phone or an app. This simple step prevents many attacks. We wrote a detailed article on Multi-factor Authentication. Read the blog to find out how Multi-factor Authentication will increase your company’s protection.
4. Use a Password Manager
Password managers help you:
- Generate strong, unique passwords.
- Store them securely
- Auto-fill them safely when needed.
- This way, you don’t have to remember every password and can avoid reusing them.
5. Be Careful with Emails, Links, and Apps
- Think twice before clicking on suspicious emails or unfamiliar links
- Avoid downloading apps from unofficial sources.
- Always verify messages asking for your password or personal info.
6. Check If Your Email Was Leaked
Use services like Have I Been Pwned to check if your email address is part of a known data breach. If it is, update your credentials immediately.
Prepare Yourself for Future Cyber Threats
To truly stay safe online, it’s essential to be proactive, not just reactive. Prepare yourself in advance to thwart potential threats before they arise.
Here’s how individuals and businesses in Saudi Arabia can prepare:
For Individuals:
- Stay informed about cyber risks.
- Regularly review account activity.
- Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks.
- Keep your software and apps up to date.
For Organizations:
- Run cybersecurity awareness training for employees.
- Enforce password policies and MFA across all accounts.
- Conduct regular security audits and penetration tests.
- Monitor networks for unusual access or data leaks.
- Create a clear incident response plan.
How Aman Solutions for Cyber Security Can Help
At Aman Solutions, we understand how overwhelming cybersecurity can feel, especially with headlines like this. That’s why we offer clear, professional support to help businesses and teams across Saudi Arabia stay protected.
Here’s how we support you:
- Cybersecurity Awareness Training: We train your team to recognize threats and practice safe behavior online. Link
- Incident Response Services: If your business is compromised, we respond quickly to contain and resolve the problem. Link
- Network & Application Security: We secure your systems against unauthorized access and data leaks. Link
- Identity and Access Management (IAM): We help you control who has access to what and prevent attackers from gaining access. Link
Our services align with Saudi cybersecurity regulations and are designed to protect your people, your data, and your reputation.
Final Thoughts
The leak of 16 billion passwords is not just another cyber headline. It’s a solemn reminder that no one is immune to digital threats. But the good news is that you can take control. Start with simple actions like changing your passwords and enabling MFA, and build from there. Whether you’re protecting your accounts or your company’s infrastructure, awareness is the first step. If you’re unsure about your organization’s security posture or want expert help, Aman Solutions for Cyber Security is here to support you with experience, local expertise, and practical solutions that work.
Stay aware. Stay safe. Stay secure.
