Yahoo e mail virus

The infamous Yahoo email virus!

In 2013, Yahoo suffered a massive data breach that exposed the email accounts of over 3 billion users. The breach was caused by a state-sponsored actor, believed to be a group of hackers sponsored by the Russian government.

The hackers gained access to Yahoo's systems by exploiting a vulnerability in the company's email service. They then stole sensitive information, including usernames, passwords, and security questions, which allowed them to access the email accounts of millions of users.

The stolen data included:

  1. Usernames and passwords
  2. Security questions and answers
  3. Email addresses
  4. Phone numbers
  5. Dates of birth
  6. Password reset questions and answers

The hackers used the stolen data to gain access to the email accounts of high-profile individuals, including politicians, business leaders, and celebrities. They also used the data to send spam and phishing emails to other users.

Yahoo's response to the breach was criticized for being slow and inadequate. The company initially downplayed the severity of the breach, and it took several months for them to notify affected users.

In 2017, Yahoo agreed to pay a $350 million fine to settle charges with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) related to the breach. The company also agreed to implement new security measures to protect user data.

To protect yourself from email viruses and other online threats, follow these best practices:

  1. Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts.
  2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever possible.
  3. Keep your operating system, browser, and antivirus software up to date.
  4. Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
  5. Use a reputable email client and antivirus software to scan your emails for malware.
  6. Monitor your email accounts regularly for suspicious activity.
  7. Consider using a password manager to generate and store unique, complex passwords.

Remember, it's always a good idea to be vigilant and take steps to protect your online security!