Official statements from the Internet Archive or law enforcement agencies

Internet Archive Hacked, Wayback Machine Down After 31 Million User Records Stolen

Oct 9, 2024, 11:36 PM

The Internet Archive, known for its Wayback Machine service, has reportedly suffered a significant security breach on October 9. According to multiple reports, a threat actor hacked the Internet Archive and stole a user authentication database containing 31 million records, which have been added to the 'Have I Been Pwned' database. The compromised data includes email addresses, screen names, and bcrypt password hashes. Users visiting the site encountered a JavaScript alert message claiming a 'catastrophic security breach', and the site has since been taken offline due to a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack. The Internet Archive is working to bring its services back online.