Security experts have noted that the file posted on the Russian hacking site only contains passwords hashed using the SHA-1 algorithm and does not include account names or any other data such as e-mail addresses. It is unknown, however, whether those that leaked the passwords are in possession of more passwords, account e-mails, or the names of users. If this is the case, users that utilize the same e-mail address and password to enter various sites (i.e. LinkedIn, Facebook, Gmail, PayPal) could be subject to further consumer fraud and other security risks. Some experts also worry that if LinkedIn profile information is compromised, this detailed professional information could easily be used in phishing e-mail scams to trick users into giving up additional sensitive and valuable information.
LinkedIn has announced that owners of compromised accounts will receive an e-mail from LinkedIn with instructions on how to reset their passwords, as well as a second e-mail from LinkedIn customer support explaining the situation in greater length. Even if you have not received such an e-mail, your password may be in the hands of unscrupulous people. Experts have suggested that every user should change their password as soon as possible and to make sure that they use different, unique passwords for each social media account.
Consumers who suspect they were affected by the LinkedIn security breach may have valuable legal rights. For more information about the LinkedIn security breach, view our recent blog post on the growing issue. To learn more, the attorneys at Morgan and Morgan invite you to visit their website at ForThePeople.com for a free case review. This online consultation is being offered at no cost and no obligation to all LinkedIn users that may have been affected by this password hacking security breach.
About Morgan & Morgan
Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest plaintiff’s law firms in the country with multiple office locations throughout Florida and the Southeast. The firm handles auto accident cases, personal injury cases, and medical malpractice cases, as well as claims against drug and medical device manufacturers. Visit Morgan & Morgan online at http://www.forthepeople.com/ for a free case evaluation and information about your legal rights.
Morgan & Morgan
Scott Weinstein
877-667-4265
pressrelease@lawyercentral.com
Source: EmailWire.Com
