The FBI is scrambling to verify a claim by the hacker group ShinyHunters that it has stolen the personal data of thousands of employees from the agency’s job site.

About two to three terabytes of data, including names, addresses, and medical information, are reportedly in the group’s possession. The motive? The hacker group says it’s protesting a recent FBI warning about them, which they alleged contained disinformation.

The stolen data could pose significant risks, as it includes sensitive professional information on counter-intelligence work. ShinyHunters has dismissed accusations of making extortion claims and swatting attacks, insisting their threats are real.

While this latest incident is concerning, it’s a stark reminder of how vulnerable large organisations can be to cyber attacks. The FBI, like many organisations, must now navigate the delicate balance between security and transparency.