Reddit Faces Security Concerns as Hackers Threaten to Release Stolen Data

 The ongoing protest against Reddit’s API pricing change has taken a new turn as hackers join forces with app developers and page moderators. This collaboration adds a significant dimension to the movement, as these groups unite to make their voices heard and push for change. Hackers have escalated the situation by demanding a $4.5 million ransom from Reddit while insisting on the revocation of the new API policy. This development intensifies the battle against Reddit’s pricing change and raises concerns about the platform’s security.

In February, Reddit fell victim to a phishing campaign orchestrated by ransomware attackers known as BlackCat. This attack targeted Reddit employees and resulted in the theft of over 80GB of company data. Now, hackers have issued threats to Reddit, demanding specific actions from the company. If these demands are not met, the hackers threaten to release confidential data to the public. This situation heightens worries about the security of Reddit’s systems and the potential consequences of a data breach. Despite the hackers’ demands, Reddit has not yet responded, leaving the situation tense and uncertain.

The recent breach at Reddit has been attributed to an advanced and targeted phishing attack. An unauthorized party gained access to internal documents, code, and business systems, although the full extent of the breach and the identity of the responsible party remain undisclosed. Reddit’s response to the breach has further fueled discontent among app developers and moderators. The platform updated its API guidelines, now requiring third-party developers to pay a fee to use the API. This move has sparked widespread protest, with popular subreddits going private in a blackout demonstration. Reddit’s CEO, Steve Huffman, asserts that the platform was not originally designed for third-party applications and has no plans to modify its current policy.