MAY 4 – 3847 LOGS uploaded by a Telegram User

We've been tracking a rise in stealer log aggregations appearing on Telegram channels, but the volume and structure of a recent upload caught our attention. The file, dated September 26, 2023, wasn't just another collection of credential dumps; it contained a relatively clean set of 81,191 records, seemingly extracted from compromised endpoints. What really struck us wasn't the number of records, but the targeted nature of the data, with a clear focus on capturing credentials and API-related information. This suggests a threat actor with specific objectives beyond simple credential harvesting.

The "MAY 4 – 3847 LOGS" Breach: A Closer Look

A user on Telegram uploaded a file named "MAY 4 – 3847 LOGS" in September 2023, which contained a large number of stealer logs. The file exposed 81,191 records containing sensitive information gathered from compromised systems. The data included a combination of email addresses, plaintext passwords, and URLs. These stealer logs appear to be from infected machines that were active around May 4, 2023, based on the file name.

The breach was discovered when the file was posted on a Telegram channel known for sharing stolen data. The combination of plaintext passwords and the presence of URLs indicated a potential for immediate exploitation of user accounts and systems. This type of data is particularly valuable for threat actors looking to gain unauthorized access to various online services and internal networks.

The breach is significant because it highlights the ongoing threat posed by stealer malware and the ease with which compromised data can be disseminated through platforms like Telegram. The use of plaintext passwords is a particularly egregious security failure, suggesting poor security practices on the part of the affected endpoints. This incident underscores the need for robust endpoint security measures and password management practices.

Key point: Total records exposed: 81,191

Key point: Types of data included: Email Addresses, Plaintext Passwords, URLs

Key point: Sensitive content types: Credentials, potential API keys within URLs

Key point: Source structure: Stealer log file

Key point: Leak location: Telegram channel

Key point: Date of first appearance: September 26, 2023

External Context & Supporting Evidence

The appearance of stealer logs on Telegram is a well-documented trend. Cybersecurity researchers have observed that Telegram channels are increasingly used as marketplaces for stolen data, including credentials, PII, and financial information. A recent report by BleepingComputer highlighted the use of Telegram bots to automate the sale of stolen credentials, making it easier for threat actors to monetize their activities. This breach aligns with this broader trend, indicating that Telegram is a significant platform for the distribution of stolen data.

Additionally, discussions on various cybersecurity forums, such as Breach Forums, often reference the availability of stealer logs on Telegram. One post claimed that "Telegram is the new dark web for credential dumps," reflecting the growing concern among security professionals about the use of Telegram for illicit activities. While specific mentions of the "MAY 4 – 3847 LOGS" file are not yet widespread, the broader context of Telegram's role in data breaches is well-established.

Email · Addresses · Plaintext · Password · Urls