Here is a major warning if you post personal information on Internet Dating Websites like AshleyMadison: The FTC just settled a major data breach case that exposed the personal information of millions of subscribers world-wide, in what the FTC says is one of the biggest breaches it’s ever investigated involving some 36 million profiles.
According to the FTC, “This case represents one of the largest data breaches that the FTC has investigated to date, implicating 36 million individuals worldwide,” said FTC Chairwoman Edith Ramirez. “The global settlement requires AshleyMadison.com to implement a range of more robust data security practices that will better-protect its users’ personal information from criminal hackers going forward.”
“Creating fake profiles and selling services that are not delivered is unacceptable behavior for any dating website,” said Vermont Attorney General William H. Sorrell, “I was pleased to see the FTC and the state attorneys general working together in such a productive and cooperative manner. Vermont has a long history of such cooperation, and it’s great to see that continuing.”
The settlement requires the defendants to implement a comprehensive data-security program, including third-party assessments. In addition, the operators will pay a total of $1.6 million to settle FTC and state actions.
This is the FTC report on the agreement.
