Earlier this week, one of the world’s most popular websites was hacked (It is reported to have more than 30 million users). It has since been reported that millions of records were stolen. In a twist of events that will leave the dating website owner truly worried, the hackers are now threatening to release the records.
Ashley Madison is a popular dating website that allows married people to enjoy life outside of their marriages. The website uses the slogan: “Life is short. Have an affair,” for its advertisements. On July 20, 2015, the website was attacked and scores of records stolen.
Up to now, it has almost been impossible to find the identities of these cheaters online. However, that could change very soon if the hackers go on to release the records. It is said that the hackers plan on posting the names and other personal details of the customers on a public website.
According to Brian Krebs, a blogger who fist reported the hacking, the details of all Ashley Madison’s customers could be published online in the next few days if the website isn’t shut down. The hackers who are known by the name “Impact Team” have threatened to release “profiles with the customers’ secret sexual fantasies and matching credit card transactions.” They have also threatened to publish real names, and addresses as well as employee documents and emails.
Avid Life Media, which has the largest voting stock in Ashley Madison, issued a statement saying: “At this time, we have already secured our sites and closed unauthorized access points.” The company says they are currently working with law enforcement agencies to investigate the criminal act.
Ashley Madison is a twisted dating website. Instead of matching eligible singles, it offers the services to married couples. Interestingly, the website is very popular across the United States, claiming to have more than 37 million customers.
Why the website is a target is anyone’s guess. Cheating is something that can easily be used for blackmail. So, if the hackers can get such information, then it may even be possible to hold the customers to ransom by threatening to reveal their identities. The hackers were possibly angered by the service’s “full delete” feature which allows members to completely erase their details from the website after finding their matches and arranging a date.
We can only wait to see what happens in the next few days. In the meantime, merchants who deal in adult services must stay cautioned; anyone can be a target. Get yourself an adult dating merchant account today and adjust your security measures.