TikTok victim of a sophisticated cyberattack

TikTok was the target of a large-scale cyberattack on June 05, 2024. The hackers targeted high-profile accounts via DMs.

TikTok has acknowledged a "potential exploit" used to target high-profile accounts, including those of media organizations and celebrities. The company said it was actively working to mitigate the cyberattack, which aims to hijack targeted accounts. Jason Grosse, spokesman for TikTok's privacy and security team, said, "We have taken steps to stop this attack and prevent it from happening again in the future." The company is also helping affected account owners restore access if necessary.

Ongoing investigation into the scale and sophistication of the attack

TikTok is currently investigating the scale and sophistication of the cyber attack, with Grosse calling it a "potential exploit". Acknowledgement of the cyber attack came after information leaked that CNN's account had been temporarily hacked. Other major accounts, including Sony and Paris Hilton, were also reportedly compromised.

Hackers take control with direct messages

The hacking method would only have required the targeted users to open a direct message. Forbes reported that the malware enabling hackers to hijack TikTok accounts did not require the target to click on a link or download any software. This revelation adds another layer of concern to the security issues surrounding TikTok, which extend beyond cyberattacks carried out by malicious actors.

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TikTok faces legal challenges over security issues

TikTok is also grappling with legal issues in the United States. In April, President Joe Biden signed a law forcing TikTok's parent company, China's ByteDance, to sell the platform or face a ban. In response, TikTok and several users filed suit against the U.S. government, arguing that the law infringes First Amendment rights.

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