Notorious hacker IntelBroker has taken credit for a significant data breach at HSBC and Barclays Bank.

The breach was linked to a security incident with a third-party contractor in April 2024.

Compromised data includes SQL files, source code, database files, certification files, and email addresses.

The leaked information poses serious risks for potential cyberattacks on customers and the banks' internal systems.

The incident underscores the ongoing cybersecurity challenges that financial institutions face with third-party contractors.

There is a clear need for improved vendor risk assessment and management to prevent such breaches.

The breach is part of a pattern of recent third-party related data breaches in the UK financial sector.

HSBC and Barclays have been approached for comments, with more updates expected on the situation.