Women's Safety App Tea Hacked: 13K IDs Leaked

Major Security Breach at Safety App

The popular women's safety app Tea experienced a significant data breach over the weekend, resulting in the leak of 13,000 user selfies and identification documents. Hackers accessed more than 75,000 photos including private images normally protected within the app.

Scope of the Attack

According to Tea's statement on Instagram, the breach compromised data from users who registered before February 2024. The hackers obtained access to direct messages, comments, and posts within the app. Compromised data has appeared on platforms including X and 4Chan.

App's Purpose and Functionality

Tea allows women to anonymously share information about men they've dated, warning others about potentially dangerous individuals, married daters, or those with criminal records. Founder Sean Cook created the app after witnessing his mother's negative dating experiences.

Security Measures and Limitations

The women-only platform blocks screenshot functionality and requires photo verification during registration. Tea claims to donate 10% of profits to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The app is currently unavailable in the Netherlands.

Rapid Growth and Controversy

Launched in 2022, Tea recently became the top-ranked app in the US with over 4.6 million users. Last week alone, the company received 2.5 million registration requests. However, the app faces criticism regarding privacy violations and potential for misinformation.

Ongoing Fallout

A cybersecurity firm is working to secure compromised data. Tea claims users need take no action. Meanwhile, a Google Map allegedly identifying affected users has surfaced, though its accuracy remains unverified. The hack follows calls for action on 4Chan by groups opposing the app.