Particle.news

Download on the App Store

4chan Faces Major Hack Exposing User Data and Source Code

The breach has disrupted site operations, leaked sensitive information, and raised questions about the platform's future security and stability.

© Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Image
Futuristic digital technological background with hexagonal elements, yellow glowing warning signs and binary code. Encryption your data. Big data security. Safe your data. Cyber internet security and privacy concept.
4chan was allegedly hacked on Tuesday

Overview

  • 4chan experienced a significant outage following a confirmed hack that began late Monday evening.
  • Hackers gained shell access to the hosting server, leaking the site's source code and exposing longstanding security vulnerabilities.
  • Sensitive user data, including emails with .edu and .gov domains, and moderator identities were leaked, raising privacy concerns.
  • Thousands of users reported the outage, with partial service restoration as of Tuesday morning, though board links remain inaccessible.
  • Speculation suggests the breach exploited outdated PHP software, highlighting chronic underinvestment in the platform's infrastructure.