Researchers Link the PL 8.7 Leak to 49,349 Stolen Logins

HEROIC analysts identified a stealer log dataset labeled "PL 8.7," uploaded to a Telegram channel on February 24, 2023. The file contains 49,349 records made up of email addresses, plaintext passwords, and the URLs of the sites those credentials were used on.

Why This Is Dangerous

Every credential in this file comes straight from an infected device, meaning passwords are stored in plaintext rather than encrypted or hashed. Combined with the matching email address and exact login URL, an attacker doesn't need any technical skill to use this data. They can simply copy each entry and attempt to log in directly, turning a downloaded file into working account access within minutes.

What Was Exposed

• Email addresses
• Plaintext passwords
• URLs of the sites the credentials were used on

Why This Matters

With 49,349 plaintext credentials tied to specific login pages, the immediate risk is account takeover on those exact services. Beyond that, if any of these people reused their password on other accounts, such as email, banking, or social media, attackers can use credential stuffing to test the same combination across other platforms, turning one leaked password into access to multiple accounts.

How Stealer Logs Work

Stealer logs come from infostealer malware that infects a victim's device, commonly through phishing emails, fake downloads, or cracked software. Once running, the malware quietly extracts saved browser passwords, autofill information, and active sessions, then compiles everything into a single log file. Files like "PL 8.7" are then distributed through Telegram channels, where anyone can download them and immediately begin using the stolen credentials.

Check If You Are Affected

With tens of thousands of credentials involved in this leak alone, it's worth checking whether your information is included. HEROIC's free breach scanner searches a database of more than 400 billion exposed records to give you an instant, clear answer and guidance on what to do next.