Security researchers have uncovered an online database containing the personal information of 106,316,633 U.S. citizens, accounting for nearly a third of the country’s population. This database includes data from the background check company MC2 Data, such as names, addresses, phone numbers, copies of various legal and employment documents, and more.
Possible Human Error Behind the Breach
Researchers believe that the MC2 Data breach resulted from human error rather than a targeted hack. Evidence supporting this theory includes the fact that the database contains information about more than 2 million customers who subscribed to MC2 Data’s services, in addition to those who underwent background checks conducted by the company’s employees.
Not an Isolated Incident
This incident marks the second major data breach from background check companies in recent months, notes NIX Solutions. In August, National Public Data confirmed a similar data breach, which led to multiple class action lawsuits filed by Americans whose personal data was exposed.
Aras Nazarovas, a researcher at Cybernews, commented, “Background check services have always been problematic because cybercriminals can pay them to collect data on potential victims. This type of leak is a goldmine for cybercriminals because it opens up a number of opportunities and reduces their risk by allowing them to use this detailed data more effectively.”
We’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.