A new data leak reportedly may have compromised the personal information of 17.5 million Instagram users, raising concerns about account security on Meta platforms. Cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes said the exposed data includes usernames, email addresses, phone numbers, physical addresses, and other sensitive details. The company discovered the alleged leak during routine dark web monitoring and warned users about potential misuse, particularly through Instagram’s password reset process. Meta, however, has denied any Instagram data breach, assuring that user accounts remain secure. Password reset emails raise concern Last week, several Instagram users reported receiving unexpected password reset emails, prompting fears of a possible data breach. Malwarebytes linked this activity to the exposure of data associated with 17.5 million accounts worldwide. “Cybercriminals stole the sensitive information of 17.5 million Instagram accounts, including usernames, physical addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, and more,” the firm said. “This data is available for sale on the dark web and can be abused by cybercriminals.” Meta denies large-scale breach Meta has dismissed claims of a major Instagram data breach. In a post on X, the company said the issue involved an external entity sending password reset requests, not unauthorized access to Instagram systems. Meta confirmed no accounts were […]