GitHub set to reveal the identity of the individual behind the Twitter source code leak
Last year, in March 2023, a significant security breach occurred at Twitter, resulting in the leak and subsequent removal of proprietary source code. As of August 2025, the identity of the individual responsible for this leak remains undisclosed.
The leaked source code, containing confidential information about Twitter's app, was available for download on GitHub for several hours. The leak has raised concerns about the protection of sensitive data and the potential consequences for those who breach such security.
The potential consequences for leaking Twitter’s proprietary source code can be severe. A leaker could face legal action under intellectual property law or computer fraud and abuse statutes, criminal charges depending on jurisdiction, and civil lawsuits from Twitter seeking damages for harm caused by the leak.
Twitter, now known as X, has taken legal action against the leaker and initiated an investigation into the incident. The company has also emphasised its commitment to the protection of its users' data.
GitHub, the platform where the leaked file was uploaded, initially refused to comply with the court order to reveal the leaker's identity. However, after the court threatened to hold them in contempt, GitHub eventually relented.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of securing sensitive information and the potential risks associated with mishandling confidential data, especially for high-profile companies like Twitter. Employees should be aware of these risks and take all necessary measures to protect the data they handle.
As the investigation continues, the identity of the leaker and the consequences they will face remain uncertain. However, it is clear that this case underscores the need for companies to prioritise data security and take proactive measures to prevent such incidents from occurring.
[1] Source: Various news outlets reporting on the Twitter source code leak. [2] Source: Cybersecurity Dive, "Twitter source code leak: What we know so far", 2023. [3] Source: TechCrunch, "Twitter source code leaked, GitHub pulls file", 2023. [4] Source: Wired, "The Twitter Source Code Leak, Explained", 2023. [5] Source: ZDNet, "Twitter source code leaked on GitHub, now removed", 2023.
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