Introduction – When Cloud Cracks: The Google Salesforce Data Breach
In June 2025, Google Salesforce Data Breach, one of Google’s corporate Salesforce systems, a cloud-based customer relationship management (CRM) platform was breached by the cybercriminal group ShinyHunters, also known as UNC6040. Though the data stolen was limited to basic business names and contact details, the incident signals a dangerous escalation in cloud-based cyber threats.
1. Google Salesforce Data Breach 2025: How ShinyHunters Attacked
- Voice phishing (vishing): Attackers impersonated IT support over phone calls, duping employees into granting system access. This approach works by playing on human emotions and trust, instead of using complex technical hacks, to gain access.
- Malicious Data Loader app: The attackers tricked users into approving a fake version of Salesforce’s Data Loader app used to import/export CRM data allowing them to quietly exfiltrate business contacts and notes.
- Short window, long impact: Google acted swiftly, cutting off access within a brief time. However, ShinyHunters alleged that they managed to steal around 2.55 million records.
- Extortion tactics: While Google hasn’t confirmed ransom demands, ShinyHunters is known for extortion via data leak sites, sometimes using platforms tracked as UNC6240.
2. Technical Terms – Google Salesforce Data Breach
- CRM (Customer Relationship Management): A cloud-based system like Salesforce stores and manages customer interactions, such as contact details and transaction history.
- Vishing is a type of social engineering in which cybercriminals make phone calls to deceive people into sharing sensitive information or granting them access they shouldn’t have.
- Data Loader: A Salesforce tool used to bulk import/export data. In this breach, attackers disguised a malicious version to extract data covertly.
- Exfiltration: Stealing data secretly and transferring it outside a secured network.
- Data Leak Site (DLS): A platform cybercriminals use to publish stolen data publicly or threaten victims with exposure until ransom is paid.
3. Global Ripples: The Wider Impact of ShinyHunters
Google Salesforce Data Breach- ShinyHunters has hit several prominent targets this year Qantas, Allianz Life, Adidas, Pandora, and Louis Vuitton exposing vulnerabilities in cloud CRM systems across the globe.
These attacks highlight how even tech giants aren’t immune especially when human trust is weaponized through vishing and social engineering.
4. India’s Cybercrime Laws on Cloud Data Breaches (IT Act & BNS)
IT Act, 2000 – Google Salesforce Data Breach
Under the Information Technology Act, offenses such as unauthorized access (Sections 43 & 66) can apply when attackers access data without permission—even through social tricks. Victims and regulators can pursue legal action under these sections.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
The BNS updates penalties for cybercrimes. If data is stolen and misused, provisions related to fraud, data tampering, or unauthorized data exposure could be applied—including for cross-border victims or accomplices.
5. Countermeasures: Strengthening Salesforce Security (and Beyond)
A. Technical Defenses
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Prevent attackers from authorizing connected apps without a second authentication step.
- Least Privilege Access: Limit employee access strictly to what’s necessary reducing the damage scope if credentials are tricked away.
- CRM App Whitelisting means permitting only trusted and verified applications to link with Salesforce, preventing unauthorized or fake versions of tools like the Data Loader from gaining access.
- Phishing Simulations & Training: Regularly train staff for vishing tactics; rehearsal builds awareness.
B. Policy and Legal Steps
- Compliance Audits: Periodic checks aligned with IT Act and BNS guidelines help detect security gaps early.
- Incident Response Planning: Have clear protocols to lockdown access, notify victims, and liaise with law enforcement.
- Regulatory Reporting: Under Indian law, data breaches must be notified to authorities and affected parties promptly.
6. Looking Ahead: What the Breach Means for You
- Human error remains the weakest link—training is your first line of defense.
- Cloud systems are not impregnable, even for top-tier companies.
- Legal readiness is crucial knowing IT Act and BNS implications can guide faster, stronger responses.
Conclusion – Trust, but Verify
The Google Salesforce data breach by ShinyHunters serves as a strong reminder that cybercriminals don’t always rely on advanced hacks—sometimes, a well-crafted and convincing phone call can do the job. Strengthening your security requires a blend of technical controls, policy frameworks, and legal clarity.
The IT Act and BNS in India provide legal mechanisms to ensure responsibility and accountability. When paired with sound technical safeguards like MFA and app whitelisting, we can turn the tide.
Also read about What Is Section 66A of the IT Act? And Why Was It Struck Down?
Good information