Hackers have managed to pilfer the personal data of more than two million Pakistani citizens from the software systems used by various restaurants and put it on sale on the internet, the 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Wednesday.
The stolen records have now surfaced on the internet, sparking concerns over the privacy and security of affected individuals.
The photos uploaded by the hackers came forth as samples for sale in the ad. The hackers claimed to steal the customer database of more than 250 restaurants which includes credit card numbers and mobile phone numbers.
The hackers demanded two Bitcoins for the data of millions of citizens. One bitcoin is worth $27,000. The value in Pakistani rupees is more than Rs 15 million.
Along with the advertisement, the hacker disclosed a selection of personal data belonging to several Pakistanis as a disturbing sample.
The leaked data reveals detailed transaction histories, including the frequency and amount of payments made by individuals at various restaurants. The hackers' advertisement also provides a list of dozens of targeted restaurants, both small-scale and larger establishments.
The breach has brought to light the use of a software called "Indalodge," which is employed by hundreds of restaurants across Pakistan.
Surprisingly, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Circle has not received any complaints regarding this alarming incident as of yet.
It has been discovered that the hackers transmitted the stolen details to various recipients via the dark web, further complicating the pursuit of justice and data security.