June 2025 has been a rough month in the world of cybersecurity. Two major data breaches rocked the internet, exposing millions — and even billions — of people’s private information. These incidents show just how important it is to protect your personal data and use tools like encryption and VPNs.
Let’s break down what happened, what it means for you, and how to stay safe.
The LinkedIn Breach: 6.5 Million Passwords Leaked
Early in June, LinkedIn was hit with a cyberattack that leaked 6.5 million user passwords. Hackers gained access to LinkedIn’s user database and posted the stolen credentials on a dark web forum. That means if you use the same password for LinkedIn and other accounts (like your email or bank login), those accounts might now be at risk too.
What went wrong?
It appears that the stolen passwords were not encrypted very well. Some were easy for hackers to crack using tools that test thousands of password combinations every second.
The 4 Billion-Record Leak
Just a few days after the LinkedIn breach, cybersecurity researchers discovered a massive leak of over 4 billion personal records. This information included names, addresses, phone numbers, and even partial credit card data. The data was being stored in a poorly protected database that had no password to keep hackers out.
Where did it come from?
Experts believe the data may have come from many sources — possibly scraped from social media, e-commerce websites, or older breaches that were combined into one massive database.
What This Means for You
These incidents aren’t just big news stories — they could directly affect you. If your password, email address, or credit card info was leaked, cybercriminals might try to:
- Log into your accounts and steal more data
- Send you phishing emails or scam texts
- Use your info for identity theft
So, What Can You Do?
You can’t stop every data breach. But you can make it much harder for hackers to steal your personal information.
1. Use Strong Passwords (and Never Reuse Them)
If you’re still using “123456” or “password,” it’s time to stop. Use long, unique passwords for each account — or better yet, use a password manager to generate and store them for you. Use PC Matic’s Secure Password Generator for worry-free online protection: https://www.pcmatic.com/password-generator/
2. Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
This adds an extra step (like a code sent to your phone) when logging in. Even if a hacker has your password, 2FA helps keep them out.
3. Encrypt Your Data
Encryption is like locking your data in a digital safe. Even if someone steals it, they can’t read it without the key. Some messaging apps and file storage systems use end-to-end encryption to protect your info.
4. Use a Trusted VPN Like PC Matic VPN
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) hides your internet activity from hackers and snoops. It protects your data, especially when you’re on public Wi-Fi (like at a coffee shop, hotel, or airport).
PC Matic VPN is a great option because:
- It encrypts your data from the moment it leaves your device
- It keeps your location private
- It helps prevent tracking by hackers, advertisers, and bad actors
- It’s made and supported in the U.S., so it follows strict security standards
What Happens Without These Protections?
Without tools like strong passwords, encryption, or a VPN, your private data is like an unlocked door for hackers. They can:
- Steal your logins
- Track your location
- Read messages you thought were private
- Access bank accounts or medical records
Stay One Step Ahead
The breaches in June 2025 are a reminder that even big companies like LinkedIn aren’t always bulletproof. But by taking a few simple steps — like using encryption and a VPN — you can keep your data safe from hackers, scammers, and spies.
Want to get started? Try PC Matic VPN today and lock down your data the smart way.
