A newly uncovered database containing stolen login credentials is drawing attention to the growing cybersecurity risks facing everyday internet users — especially those involved in cryptocurrency. The scale of the exposure highlights how compromised personal devices, rather than hacked platforms, are becoming a major attack vector.
149 Million Records Found in Public Database
A cybersecurity investigation revealed a publicly accessible dataset with roughly 149 million usernames and passwords collected from malware-infected phones and computers. The credentials span a wide range of services, including email providers, streaming platforms, social media accounts and cryptocurrency exchanges.
Among the exposed data were approximately 420,000 login records linked to crypto exchange accounts. The dump also included tens of millions of email credentials and millions more tied to major consumer platforms, creating significant risk for account takeovers and phishing campaigns.
Not an Exchange Breach, but Device-Level Theft
Security experts emphasized that this incident does not reflect a breach of exchange infrastructure. Instead, the data was harvested using infostealer malware, a type of malicious software that silently extracts saved passwords, cookies and wallet data once a device is compromised.
The dataset also contained credentials associated with government-related domains, increasing the risk of impersonation and targeted scams.
A Growing Threat to Crypto Wallets
Recent malware variants disguise themselves as game mods or software cracks, targeting browsers and crypto wallet extensions across dozens of exchanges. These tools can drain wallets, hijack accounts and install hidden crypto miners.
Experts advise users to maintain updated operating systems, use reputable antivirus software, avoid unofficial downloads and enable hardware-based multi-factor authentication wherever possible.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.