Last week, Twilio, the company behind the two-factor authentication (2FA) app Authy, confirmed that unauthorised access may have exposed Authy users’ phone numbers. This incident has raised concerns among users of the popular app.
🚨MAJOR DATA LEAK🚨ShinyHunters has allegedly leak 33 Million Twilio Authy random phones
— Dark Web Informer (@DarkWebInformer) June 27, 2024
Per ShinyHunters: "Twilio authy and segment are segmentation faulting like tylerb BGP route from which we hack them and laughing to the bank #cr0wdsp1d3r" pic.twitter.com/GdYOt0UmK8
How did the incident happen?
Twilio revealed in a security alert that the unauthorised access was due to an unauthenticated endpoint in their system. This vulnerability allowed the ShinyHunters group to input phone numbers and verify whether they were linked to Authy accounts, exposing 33 million phone numbers.
The company has since secured the endpoint, preventing any further unauthenticated access. Twilio reassured users that there is no evidence that unauthorised actors accessed other sensitive data or the company’s systems beyond these phone numbers.
Twilio’s response and recommendations
Given this incident, Twilio strongly advises all Authy users to update their Android and iOS apps to the latest versions. These updates include enhanced security measures to protect against potential threats. Twilio also warns that the stolen phone numbers could be used for phishing (fraudulent emails) and smishing (fraudulent text messages) attacks. Therefore, users should remain vigilant and cautious about any suspicious communications.
This is not the first time Twilio has faced a security incident. Two years ago, unauthorised actors successfully phished several employees to access data from over 100 Twilio customers. This previous incident highlights the ongoing challenge of securing digital platforms against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
Protecting yourself from future attacks
Twilio’s latest security incident underscores the importance of staying updated with the newest app versions and being aware of potential phishing and smishing attempts. Users should regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to protect their accounts. Additionally, being cautious about unsolicited messages and verifying the authenticity of communications can help prevent falling victim to these attacks.
Twilio continues improving its security measures to protect its users and prevent future incidents. Taking proactive steps and staying informed can better safeguard your personal information against cyber threats.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with a response from Twilio. Twilio has seen no evidence that the threat actors breached its systems or obtained access to its systems or other sensitive internal data. As a precaution, Twilio is requesting all Authy users to update to the latest Android and iOS apps for the latest security updates and encourages all Authy users to stay diligent and maintain heightened awareness around phishing and smishing attacks.
