Hyderabad: In an ethical hacking test run by cyber security experts it was found that eight out of 10 matrimonial websites are vulnerable to hacking.

Personal details, right from description of a person to his/her requirements in a partner mentioned by the applicants can be hacked, as matrimonial sites have no upgraded security features. There are very high possibilities of details getting copied and pasted on dating cites and applications.

Those registering on the websites do not know that their personal details can be accessed by many. Cyber crime officials have received complaints regarding the sharing of information about applicants by websites.

Speaking to DC an ethical hacker said, “The hacking was done on e-commerce and matrimonial websites. It was found that 8 out of 10 were vulnerable. The passwords are cracked with the help of viruses and combinations of words and features. It depends on what software the matrimonial agencies are using and whether they have been able to update it to the latest e-commerce security system. Unless the sites are securely designed they will always be vulnerable.”

Reports said that dating websites are also vulnerable.

A senior officer from the city cyber crime explained, “Several cases have been reported of matrimonial site account holders’ details being illegally shared on indecent websites. Apart from hacking, there are cases where fraudsters created a profile to match the requirements of many applicants especially those who are looking for a second marriage. Then, the scamsters (many run by Nigerian groups) contact them through mails and skype and cheat them.”

Experts said that users must think proactively and take steps to protect their online accounts even if a site they use gets breached. One way of doing that is to use a password manager which generates strong unique passwords and stores them either locally or online. That way, when a site is attacked, details cannot be accessed and hackers won't be able to break into accounts.