Impact & Downstream Threats
This breach carries moderate risk due to the nature of exposed data fields and the scale of affected records.
- Credential stuffing against reused passwords across other platforms
- Targeted phishing campaigns using exposed email addresses
Breach Intelligence
Executive Summary
In December 2016, the forum for the public blockchain-based distributed computing platform Ethereum suffered a data breach. The database contained over 16k unique email addresses along with IP addresses, private forum messages and (mostly) bcrypt hashed passwords. Ethereum elected to self-submit the data to HIBP, providing the service with a list of email addresses impacted by the incident.
About Ethereum
Decentralized blockchain platform for smart contracts.
Data Points Exposed
Dark Web Verification
Status: Confirmed
- Dataset containing approximately 16K records identified in breach intelligence sources.
- The data is indexed and searchable across breach notification platforms.
Recommended Actions
⚠️ Do not assume this is low sensitivity.
Non-clients may request a breach impact review.
Frequently Asked Questions
In December 2016, Ethereum experienced a data breach that exposed approximately 16K records containing personal information.
The exposed data includes fields such as activity history:website activity, email address, ip address, messages and chat:private message, password.
Approximately 16K records were affected based on current breach intelligence.
Protect Yourself
Check If You’re Affected
Enter your email to check if your data appears in this breach.
Get Free Breach Alerts
Be the first to know when new breaches are disclosed.
High-Risk? Get an Exposure Audit
Full-spectrum exposure audits for executives and public figures.
ObscureIQ Advisory
We combine proprietary dark web access with commercial and restricted breach intelligence to verify exposure and assess real-world risk.
- A public-facing individual
- A high-profile executive
- A customer of Ethereum
- Or concerned about credential reuse
Powered by the ObscureIQ Breach Intelligence Database
© 2026 ObscureIQ · All Rights Reserved · Data Licensing
Latest from ObscureIQ
What Is Credit Monitoring? And Do I Want It? (Answer: Not Really)
Lock Down Browsers. Wipe Employee Footprints. Win Breach Wars.
Sextortion Spam