Ticketmaster has confirmed a massive data breach that has compromised the personal information of 560 million users. The hacker group known as ShinyHunters is behind this attack, which has exposed sensitive details such as names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and partial credit card information.
What Happened?
ShinyHunters announced the breach in late May 2024, putting the stolen data up for sale on Breach Forums for $500,000. The data set, which totals 1.3 terabytes, includes everything from ticket sales and event information to partial credit card details like the last four digits and expiration dates. This hacker group has a history of targeting major companies, including Microsoft and AT&T, adding another high-profile breach to their list​.
Ticketmaster’s Response
Ticketmaster’s parent company, Live Nation Entertainment, disclosed the breach in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. They identified unauthorized activity in a third-party cloud database as the breach’s origin. The U.S. Department of Justice is also involved, especially as this breach comes amidst an ongoing lawsuit against Ticketmaster​.
How It Affects You
If you’re a Ticketmaster user, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your information. Change your passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and keep an eye on your accounts for any suspicious activity. The stolen data could be used for identity theft or fraud attempts.
This breach is a reminder of the growing threat of cyberattacks and the need for stronger cybersecurity measures. While Ticketmaster and authorities continue their investigations, users should take proactive steps to secure their personal information and stay updated on the latest developments​.
