On June 21, 2013, social networking site Facebook said that phone numbers and email addresses of about 6 million Facebook users have been improperly shared. The social network said that the personal details were exposed due to a software bug.
In a security note, Facebook said that no financial or other information has been leaked to others and that there was no evidence that this bug has been maliciously exploited. The social network went on to say that it is embarrassed and upset due to the glitch. Facebook users who are affected by this glitch are being notified through email and being told that the practical impact is likely to be minimal.
Facebook said, “We take people’s privacy seriously, and we strive to protect people’s information to the very best of our ability. Even with a strong team, no company can ensure 100 percent prevention of bugs.” Regarding this case, it is likely that the bug has allowed some of the person’s contact information – including email and phone number – to be accessed by people who either had some contact information about the person or some connection to them.
Facebook also said that, so far, they have not received any complaints from their users nor have they seen any anomalous behavior.
