[repost] AutoTrader DB Leaked - IntelBroker

The online automotive marketplace Autotrader has recently become the target of a significant data breach, with claims that the personal information of 1.4 million users has been leaked on the dark web. This incident raises serious concerns about cybersecurity and personal data protection in the digital age.

The Breach Announcement

A user named “IntelBroker” on a hacker forum known as BreachForums made a post titled “AutoTrader Database, Leaked – Download!” The post, made on April 10, 2024, claims that hackers stole a database containing information on 1.4 million Autotrader users in January 2023. The compromised data reportedly includes car information such as:

• brand
• model
• type 
• VIN numbers
• mileage
• personal details like email addresses and physical locations.

IntelBroker, linked to the Endurance ransomware gang, has a history of involvement in cybercrimes, including previous attacks on companies such as Volvo, TheBodyShop Indonesia, and Dr. Martens. This pattern of targeting and selling stolen data on the dark web is a hallmark of their operations.

Autotrader’s Stance on the Matter

In response to the claims, Autotrader has communicated to The Cyber Express that the data in question pertains to aged listing data that was generally publicly available on their site and could have been collected through automated methods. They have stated that there is no evidence of improper access to their systems or data and that the referenced data does not relate to consumer vehicle listings or related data.

The Dark Web Marketplace

The dark web is a part of the internet not indexed by traditional search engines and is often associated with illegal activities. In this obscured part of the web, data like the Autotrader user database can be bought and sold, often in exchange for cryptocurrencies like Monero (XMR), which provide additional anonymity to the transactions.

The Bigger Picture

Data breaches are not isolated incidents; they are part of a larger trend of cybercriminal activities that have significant implications for individuals and businesses. According to the 2022 Cost of a Data Breach Report by IBM and the Ponemon Institute, the average data breach cost is in the millions, with the United States facing the highest costs.

Protecting Personal Data

In light of such breaches, users must take steps to protect their personal information. This includes monitoring financial statements, changing passwords regularly, enabling two-factor authentication, and being wary of phishing attempts.