Mass password theft hits Hotmail users - 10,000 Hotmail passwords hacked

• A 'phishing' operation has been blamed for the reported theft of thousands of Hotmail users' passwords.
• More than 10,000 Hotmail passwords have been hacked and posted online, a technology website has reported.
• Microsoft, which owns the email service, said it had not yet been able to confirm the report, but it was "actively investigating the situation".
• Technology blog neowin.net reported that an anonymous user had posted the details of Windows Live Hotmail accounts on pastebin.com, a site used by developers to share code, on October 1.
• Neowin administrator Tom Warren wrote on the blog: "The details have since been removed but Neowin has seen part of the list posted and can confirm the accounts are genuine and most appear to be based in Europe.
• The list details over 10,000 accounts starting from A through to B, suggesting there could be additional lists.
• Currently it appears only accounts used to access Microsoft's Windows Live Hotmail have been posted, this includes @hotmail.com, @msn.com and @live.com accounts."
• The blog suggested the details were obtained through a hack or "phishing" scam, in which fake websites are used to trick people into revealing usernames, passwords and other information.
• A Microsoft spokesman said: "Microsoft has been made aware of the claims that Windows Live IDs and passwords have been made available on the web.
• We're actively investigating the situation and will take appropriate steps as rapidly as possible."
• Neowin recommended Windows Live Hotmail users "change your password and security question immediately".

By www.MICHAELJACKSON50.com