After popular shows like Heartstopper, Arcane, and more were leaked online, Netflix has finally addressed its largest data breach in recent years.
The leak began on August 6, 2024, when episodes from several highly anticipated anime were leaked on TikTok and X. These included Dandadan, Ranma ½, Terminator Zero, Re:Zero, and Mononoke the Movie, all of which were originally planned for release later in the year.
Despite initial speculation that the leaks had been contained, additional shows continued to surface online. Just two days after the initial breach, the first five episodes of Arcane Season 2 were leaked, and they were quickly followed by the release of Heartstopper Season 3.
Three days since the incident, Netflix has issued a statement addressing the leaks. On August 8, The Wrap reported that a Netflix spokesperson stated: “We have been made aware that one of our post-production partners has been hacked, resulting in the unauthorized release of footage from multiple titles. We are actively working to remove the leaked content from the internet.”
Despite efforts to remove them, the leaked episodes continue to circulate on social media. Although there is widespread disapproval among netizens regarding these premature releases, Netflix has undoubtedly suffered a major setback as a result of this breach. The abundance of spoilers online has prompted many users to demand early official releases of the leaked shows.
Anime releases, specifically, have been greatly affected. Dandadan, Re: Zero, and Terminator Zero were highly anticipated shows of the year, but the leak of multiple episodes has had a negative impact on their success. The current situation was also addressed by an animator of Dandadan.
Additionally, this is not the only instance of popular shows being leaked this year. Merely a week before, HBO experienced a significant data breach when the finale of House of the Dragon Season 2 was leaked on the internet. Although the issue has been resolved, it has highlighted the obvious vulnerability in data security.
With Netflix taking action against the breach, it is anticipated that the leaks will come to an end soon. However, it remains to be seen if similar incidents will occur in the future.
Don’t forget to also explore the new TV shows available for streaming this month and learn more about the talented cast of Heartstopper. And for those who love anime, be sure to take a look at our guide to the top anime shows on Netflix.
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