Tech Desk 
May 27, 2025
A huge data breach has now leaked account details for more than 184 million internet users globally, triggering serious concerns over cybersecurity risks, especially for services such as Google, Facebook, Microsoft and various banking and government platforms.
The leaked data includes usernames, passwords, email addresses, and URLs for other services and was supposedly harvested using infostealer malware, an undetected software that covertly syphons sensitive data from infected devices.
Even worse is the fact that the data was stored in plain text, with no protections or encryption, making it even easier for hackers to exploit.
NCERT, Pakistan's National Cyber Emergency Response Team, has issued a public advisory after the breach was reported. NCERT spokesperson Syed Imran Haider said that no government or private organisation in Pakistan indicated a breach so far.
"We're communicating with all relevant departments and are vigilant. Our team is also in contact with international CERTs and cybersecurity platforms," he said.
How to stay safe from cyber threats ?
NCERT called for all internet users to change their passwords immediately, especially if they use the same passwords on multiple sites. Users should also enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on important accounts to help avert possible misuse.
Cybersecurity expert Dr Shahid Sultan warned that Pakistani users could face threats like identity theft, account hijacking, or even financial loss.
“Banking accounts are most at risk. Everyone must monitor their login activity and follow NCERT’s safety advice,” he added.
