Investigate whether you're impacted by the issue at hand

In a recent development, a hacker going by the name "Chucky_BF" has claimed to have obtained around 16 million PayPal login credentials, including plaintext passwords. The data is reportedly being offered for sale on an underground forum, although it is uncertain if PayPal is the original source of the data.

According to Dirk Knop from the "Heise" service department, it is unlikely that the data was actually obtained from PayPal. Nevertheless, users are advised to take proactive measures to secure their accounts.

If searches at Have I Been Pwned result in one or more hits, affected users should change their password with the respective service. This is a crucial step in maintaining the security of your online accounts.

The Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends the use of password managers for safer online activity. These tools help manage multiple passwords, making it easier for users to have unique, complex passwords for each service. An alternative to password managers is a password notebook, as explained by the BSI on its website.

A promising development in the realm of passwordless login is the rise of passkeys. Unlike traditional passwords, passkeys are generated automatically and cannot be stolen, guessed, or forgotten. They require approval for login, often through methods like fingerprint verification. Passkeys can be stored on a security USB stick (FIDO2), in a mobile operating system, or in a compatible password manager, providing a universal and independent solution.

It is also advisable to avoid using the same password for one or more other services. This makes it harder for attackers to take over several accounts at once. Regularly checking accounts for compromised passwords and changing them if necessary is another proactive measure to prevent future attacks.

In case of suspicious activities in one's account, PayPal should be contacted immediately, and if necessary, a report should be filed with the local police or the web watch of one's respective federal state. Screenshots and the saving of account statements can be useful when reporting such activities.

In conclusion, while the authenticity of the PayPal data breach claim remains uncertain, it serves as a reminder for users to prioritise their online security. Employing password managers, using unique passwords, and regularly checking accounts for compromised passwords are essential practices in maintaining a secure digital presence.