We've been tracking a steady increase in credentials exposed via stealer logs circulating on Telegram channels. What really struck us wasn't the volume of these logs, but the increasing specificity of the targeted services and the clear evidence of follow-on attacks using the exposed credentials. This particular breach, affecting **HiJapan**, a service with a relatively small user base, stood out because of the highly sensitive nature of the data compromised – specifically, the exposure of passwords in plaintext. This suggests a significant lapse in basic security practices and underscores the persistent threat posed by stealer malware.
A stealer log, titled "TaroCloudFreeLogs 2000," surfaced on a Telegram channel on June 11, 2025, and came to our attention on November 20, 2025. The log contained credentials harvested from compromised devices, impacting 32,465 HiJapan users. What caught our attention was the inclusion of plaintext passwords alongside email addresses, usernames, homepage URLs, IP addresses, and system information. The use of plaintext passwords represents an egregious security failure and dramatically increases the risk of account takeover and further compromise.
This incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by stealer malware, which continues to be a significant source of leaked credentials. The ease with which these logs are disseminated via platforms like Telegram amplifies the impact of such breaches. The HiJapan breach is particularly concerning because it demonstrates that even smaller online services are vulnerable to these attacks, and that basic security measures, such as password hashing, are not always implemented.
The HiJapan breach matters to enterprises because it underscores the importance of robust security awareness training for employees. Stealer malware often relies on social engineering tactics to trick users into downloading malicious software or entering credentials on phishing sites. Employees who are aware of these threats are less likely to fall victim to these attacks, protecting both their personal accounts and the organization's sensitive data. Furthermore, organizations should actively monitor for leaked credentials associated with their domains to proactively identify and mitigate potential account compromises.
Key point: Total records exposed: 32,465
Key point: Types of data included: Email Address, Plaintext Password, HomePage URL, IP Address, System Information
Key point: Sensitive content types: PII (Personally Identifiable Information), Passwords
Key point: Source structure: Stealer Log
Key point: Leak location(s): Telegram channel
Key point: Date of first appearance: June 11, 2025
The use of Telegram channels for the distribution of stealer logs is a well-documented phenomenon. Security researchers have observed a thriving ecosystem where compromised credentials and other sensitive data are traded and shared. As BleepingComputer reported earlier this year, "Telegram has become a haven for cybercriminals looking to monetize stolen data." The ease of access and anonymity afforded by the platform make it an attractive venue for these activities.
One Telegram post observed in a related channel stated, "Fresh logs, grab 'em while they're hot!" This illustrates the time-sensitive nature of these leaks and the urgency with which attackers attempt to exploit compromised credentials. The availability of tools and tutorials for analyzing stealer logs further lowers the barrier to entry for malicious actors.
Email · Address · Plaintext · Password · Homepage · Url
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