Disney experienced a data breach with internal communications reportedly leaked by a hacking group named Nullbulge. Nullbulge claimed to have infiltrated Disney’s internal Slack messaging system downloading over a terabyte (1.1 TB) of data.
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The leaked data includes internal messages, login credentials, code, images and details about unreleased projects, spanning approximately 10,000 Slack channels.
While Disney has confirmed an ongoing investigation, the authenticity of the data has not been independently verified.
Nullbulge describes itself as a hacktivist group planning to protect artists’ rights and ensure fair compensation particularly criticizing Disney’s use of AI in creative processes.
The group claims their actions are not malicious but intended to punish those they believe are stealing from artists by using AI-generated content.
The hackers reportedly gained access to Disney’s Slack system via an insider’s compromised computer. They downloaded files and chat messages, allegedly including sensitive information about Disney’s projects, advertising campaigns and internal operations dating back to 2019.
The leaked data contains conversations about software development, recruitment, website maintenance and employee programs.
Information regarding upcoming gaming collaborations and unannounced video game sequels has started to emerge online.
Nullbulge stated they gained access through a Disney employee’s Slack cookies. Despite an attempt by the employee to eject the hackers, they managed to regain access.
The group targeted Disney over concerns about artist rights and compensation especially regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Nullbulge communicated the breach through an email to CNN claiming to be based in Russia. They addressed that making demands of Disney would be futile opting instead to release the data directly.
The information includes internal communications, images, login credentials, studio information and ad campaigns. Screenshots posted by Nullbulge on social media included visitor, booking and revenue data for Disneyland Paris.
The Wall Street Journal reviewed files showing conversations about Disney’s corporate website maintenance, software development, employment candidate assessments and internal programs for ESPN.
Data stretches back to at least 2019 including personal items like employee dog photos.
This incident is compared to the 2014 Sony Pictures hack, which exposed emails, social security numbers and movie scripts.
The Sony hack had severe consequences including international tensions and internal disruption.
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Disney’s breach follows a series of cyberattacks on media and telecom companies in 2024 including Roku, Live Nation, and AT&T.
These breaches have involved third-party cloud providers although there is no indication that Disney’s breach is related.
Disney is actively investigating the breach. No detailed statement has been provided yet regarding the extent of the impact or specific measures being taken.
Disney’s investigation will likely involve reviewing security protocols and possibly strengthening access controls.
The group aims to protect artists’ rights and ensure fair compensation. Concerns revolve around the potential for AI to replace human roles in writing and acting.
AI has been a topic in negotiations with concerns about tools like ChatGPT writing scripts and CGI replacing actors. These issues were central in Screen Actors Guild and Writers Guild of America strikes.
Nullbulge targeted Disney due to its handling of artist contracts, AI usage and consumer relations. The group publicly criticized Disney stating they did not expect the company to meet their demands to stop using AI.
Nullbulge’s website addresses their mission to protect artists’ rights and combat the exploitation they attribute to AI-generated content.
Disney has been exploring the use of generative AI across various facets of its entertainment portfolio including film credits and digital content.
The company reportedly established a task force to investigate and implement AI technologies within its operations.
Disney’s use of AI in producing credits for the Secret Invasion series on Disney Plus and it has been a point of contention among creatives.
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