Brinztech Alert: The Alleged Database of Vrisko is on Sale

Dark Web News Analysis

The dark web news reports a significant data sale involving Vrisko (vrisko.gr), a leading Greek business directory and search engine. A threat actor on a hacker forum is selling a database allegedly containing 356,000 entries.

The compromised dataset is particularly sensitive because it includes User Messages and Inquiries sent through the platform. Alongside Sender Names, Email Addresses, and Phone Numbers, the leak reportedly exposes the actual Message Contents. The seller’s willingness to use an Escrow Service suggests they are confident in the validity of the data, increasing the credibility of the threat.

Key Cybersecurity Insights

Breaches of business directories that facilitate communication are “Tier 1” privacy threats because they expose the intent and needs of the user:

• Contextual Phishing (The “Quote” Scam): [No image] The exposure of Message Content is the critical risk. If a user sent a message asking for a quote on “Home Renovation,” attackers can use this context to send a highly targeted phishing email: “Regarding your request for renovation on Vrisko, please see our attached quote.” Because the context matches the user’s actual activity, the success rate of this attack is incredibly high.
• B2B & B2C Impact: Vrisko connects consumers with professionals (doctors, lawyers, plumbers). The leak compromises both the privacy of the individual seeking help (potentially for sensitive medical or legal issues) and the professionals receiving the leads.
• GDPR Violation: As a Greek entity, Vrisko is subject to strict GDPR regulations. The leak of unencrypted message content and PII for 356,000 users constitutes a major breach of confidentiality, likely attracting heavy fines from the Hellenic Data Protection Authority.
• Mobile Fraud: Greeks heavily utilize Viber and WhatsApp. The exposure of Phone Numbers allows attackers to move the scam to these instant messaging platforms, impersonating service providers to request “deposits” or “booking fees” instantly.

Mitigation Strategies

To protect users and regulatory standing, the following strategies are recommended:

• GDPR Notification: Vrisko must immediately notify the Data Protection Authority and the 356,000 affected users, specifically warning them about the exposure of their message history.
• Platform Warning: Place a prominent banner on the vrisko.gr homepage advising users that legitimate service providers will never ask for credit card details or passwords via email/SMS.
• Message Retention Policy: Review the data retention policy. Was it necessary to store 356,000 historical messages in a hot database accessible to the web? Implementing auto-deletion or archiving for old messages reduces the blast radius of future breaches.
• Vendor Security: If the messages were intercepted via a third-party plugin or API, that connection must be severed immediately.

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