Data Breach Alert: Hacker Leaks Information from Star Health Using Telegram Chatbots
A significant data breach has occurred involving Star Health, India’s largest health insurer, with stolen customer information now accessible through Telegram chatbots. This alarming development comes shortly after concerns were raised about Telegram’s potential use in facilitating criminal activities.
According to a security researcher who alerted Reuters, the creator of the chatbots claimed that private details of millions are up for sale, with samples available upon request. This has raised serious questions about data security in the digital age.
In response, Star Health and Allied Insurance, valued at over $4 billion, reported the unauthorized data access to local cybercrime authorities. While the insurer stated that an initial assessment found “no widespread compromise,” it also emphasized that “sensitive customer data remains secure.”
However, a Reuters investigation revealed that the chatbots allowed access to sensitive documents, including policy details, personal identification, medical test results, and diagnoses.
Telegram, known for its rapid growth and user-friendly chatbot features, is now under increased scrutiny, especially after the recent arrest of its founder, Pavel Durov, in France. Despite Durov’s denial of wrongdoing, the incident highlights ongoing challenges in moderating content and preventing misuse of the platform.
The chatbots, identified as operating under the name “by xenZen” since at least August 6, underscore the difficulties faced by Indian companies in safeguarding their data against sophisticated cyber threats.
