Found in the backend code was the API bug that left 6.8 million people’s photos exposed. All of the photos were transferred to third-party apps that users had allowed access to their photos. “When someone gives permission for an app to access their photos on Facebook, we usually only grant the app access to photos people share on their timeline. In this case, the bug potentially gave developers access to other photos, such as those shared on Marketplace or Facebook Stories. The bug also impacted photos that people uploaded to Facebook, but chose not to post,” said a Facebook Developer. Nearly 1,500 apps and 876 developers were able to access the private photos. Facebook is currently working with the developers of the third-party apps to delete the photos of the unsuspecting victims. Users will also receive an alert through Facebook if they have not noticed yet.
Analyst Notes
If users believe sensitive information has been compromised, they should always change their passwords. Users should also be cautious as to what apps they download and the permissions they give them.
