Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2000/01/24/60_000_virgin_net_users/

60,000 Virgin.net ‘users’ fail to change passwords

National Apathy League out in force

By Tim Richardson

Posted in On-Prem, 24th January 2000 14:13 GMT

Almost 60,000 Virgin.net users are still without email following a security breach at the ISP earlier this month. Although some 110,000 Virgin.net users have already responded to requests to change their email passwords following the incident, a third of those affected have still to take any action to get back online. Virgin.net has sent out two letters in the last fortnight reminding people that if they want to use the service they have to change their passwords. Despite the apparent lack of concern from some quarters, user apathy doesn't pose any threat to security, a spokesman for Virgin.net said today. When the problem was discovered Virgin.net disabled all email accounts in order to preserve system integrity. Email accounts can only be reactivated with a new password. Surrey Police confirmed that they are investigating the alleged hacking incident but declined to give any further details. Last week it was reported that the alleged Virgin hackers were part of a British gang trying to blackmail Visa for £10 million. A spokesman for Virgin.net confirmed today that an email server problem on Friday was unrelated. ® Related Stories Hacker penetrates Virgin Hacker gang suspected over Virgin bust