Experian Hacking Timeline- Unraveling the Chronology of One of the Largest Data Breaches in History
When did Experian get hacked? This question has been on the minds of many since the data breach that occurred in 2015. Experian, one of the world’s largest credit reporting agencies, experienced a significant cyberattack that compromised the personal information of millions of individuals. In this article, we will delve into the details of the hack, its aftermath, and the steps taken by Experian to address the issue.
Experian, founded in 1980, is known for its comprehensive credit reporting services and data analytics. The company’s extensive database contains sensitive information about billions of consumers and businesses worldwide. However, on May 17, 2015, Experian fell victim to a cyberattack that exposed the personal data of approximately 15 million people. The hackers gained access to names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, and other personal details.
The breach was discovered by Experian on September 7, 2015, when the company’s security team identified suspicious activity on its network. After conducting an internal investigation, Experian confirmed that the attack had occurred and that the personal information of millions of individuals had been compromised. The company immediately notified affected customers and law enforcement agencies.
The hack was attributed to a sophisticated cybercriminal gang that had been targeting Experian for several months. The attackers used a zero-day exploit, a previously unknown vulnerability, to gain unauthorized access to the company’s systems. This type of exploit is particularly concerning because it allows hackers to bypass traditional security measures and gain access to sensitive data.
In the aftermath of the breach, Experian faced a wave of criticism and legal action. The company was accused of not taking adequate steps to protect customer data and of being slow to respond to the breach. Several class-action lawsuits were filed against Experian, and the company was also investigated by regulators.
To address the issue, Experian took several steps to improve its cybersecurity measures. The company invested in new technologies and implemented stricter security protocols to protect its systems. Additionally, Experian offered affected customers free credit monitoring and identity theft protection services for two years.
The Experian hack serves as a stark reminder of the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital age. As companies continue to store vast amounts of personal data, the risk of cyberattacks increases. It is crucial for organizations to prioritize cybersecurity and take proactive measures to protect their systems and customer data.
In conclusion, Experian was hacked on May 17, 2015, and the breach compromised the personal information of approximately 15 million individuals. The company has since taken steps to improve its cybersecurity measures and has offered affected customers support and protection. However, the incident highlights the ongoing threat of cyberattacks and the need for continuous vigilance in protecting sensitive data.
