eBay tells all users to reset passwords after security breach

By Trevor Mogg May 21, 2014

ebay tells all users to change passwords after major security breach — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Time for another password change, folks – at least, if you’re an eBay user.

The e-commerce giant on Wednesday strongly recommended all users to reset their password for the site after it was discovered hackers had compromised a database containing encrypted passwords and other non-financial data.

The company reassured users that following “extensive” tests, there was no evidence so far of any unauthorized activity on the site, and no evidence of any unauthorized access to financial or credit card information, which it said it holds separately in encrypted formats.

As a precautionary measure, however, users are advised to change their password for the site, as well as for any other online services where the same password is used.

The compromised database, which included eBay customers’ names, encrypted passwords, email addresses, mail addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth, was hacked between late February and early March, eBay said, adding that it was only recently discovered.

The San Jose, California company said that later today it will begin sending out emails to all of its users advising them to change their passwords.

“Information security and customer data protection are of paramount importance to eBay, and eBay regrets any inconvenience or concern that this password reset may cause our customers,” the company said in a statement released Wednesday morning, adding, “We know our customers trust us with their information, and we take seriously our commitment to maintaining a safe, secure and trusted global marketplace.”

PayPal, which is owned by eBay, is reportedly not involved in the security breach.

[Image: Gil C / Shutterstock]

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