Global auctioning site eBay has warned users to change their passwords in the wake of a recent cyber attack against the company. The popular service used by millions all over the world has suffered from a database breach, in which the safety of personal information such as names, passwords, and email addresses have all been compromised. The company has reassured that no financial information was contained within the database and neither was there any sign of a PayPal hacking.
The attack itself occurred back in early spring in which cyber attackers gained access to a small number of employee"s accounts; this resulted in unauthorized access to eBay"s network, that enabled the criminals to obtain information from the database. A team of IT experts has been put to the task of a ruthless investigation, aiming to protect customers and their identities against further damage.
The article quotes an eBay statement, saying:
eBay regrets any inconvenience or concern that this password reset may cause our customers. We know our customers trust us with their information, and we take seriously our commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and trusted global marketplace.
eBay users will be told to change their passwords imminently, the alert will arrive through each registered email address, and the sites communication feature will also notify accounts of the predicament.
The company is responsible for $205 billion (USD) of commerce in 2013, as well as functioning in more than 1,000 cities around the globe. Although impressive stats, many users may feel vulnerable when shopping on the site in the future. As to how much of an effect this breach will have on the company"s extensive success, only time will tell.
Source: eBay via Business Wire
Thanks Max Norris for the tip!