The website "Have I Been Pwned" (https://haveibeenpwned.com)is a free online service created by security expert Troy Hunt. Its purpose is to help individuals determine if their personal information has been compromised in data breaches.
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When a data breach occurs, where a large amount of sensitive information such as usernames, email addresses, passwords, and other personal details are exposed or stolen from websites or online services, this information can end up being sold or shared on the internet. Cybercriminals can then use this information for various malicious purposes, such as identity theft, fraud, or unauthorized access to accounts.
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"Have I Been Pwned" allows users to check if their email address or username has appeared in any known data breaches. By entering their email address or username into the search field on the website, users can instantly find out if their information has been compromised in any publicly known breaches. The service does not require users to provide their passwords or any other sensitive information, ensuring their privacy and security.
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If a match is found, the website will display information about the breached websites or services where the user's information was exposed. It also provides details about the type of data that was compromised. The website advises users to take appropriate action, such as changing their passwords and enabling two-factor authentication, to protect their accounts.
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In addition to the individual search feature, "Have I Been Pwned" also offers a service for organizations called "Pwned Passwords." It allows organizations to check if their users' passwords have been exposed in data breaches and helps them implement stronger password security measures.
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Overall, "Have I Been Pwned" is a valuable resource for individuals and organizations to be aware of and take necessary steps to secure their online accounts and personal information in the face of data breaches.