Dell required Dell.com users to reset their passwords in November 2018 after detecting and disrupting activity that attempted to extract customer information. The company said names, email addresses and hashed passwords were in scope, but its investigation found no conclusive evidence that information had been extracted. Dell also advised customers to change passwords on other accounts if they had reused their Dell.com password.
Why Dell required a password reset
Dell said it detected and disrupted unauthorized activity on its network on November 9, 2018. The activity was attempting to extract information associated with Dell.com customers. Dell announced the incident on November 28, describing it as a potential cybersecurity incident.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The information the activity attempted to obtain included customer names, email addresses and hashed passwords. Dell said its investigation found no conclusive evidence that information was extracted. It required Dell.com users to reset their passwords as a precaution, citing password hashing and the reset among its protective measures. The company also said it retained an independent digital forensics firm and engaged law enforcement.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Dell stated that credit-card and other sensitive customer information were not targeted, and that Dell products and services were not affected. Its account of the event does not establish that attackers stole the listed customer information.
#1 Best Overall
- POWERFUL SECURITY KEY: The Security Key C NFC is the essential physical passkey for protecting your digital life from phishing attacks. It ensures only you can access your accounts.
- WORKS WITH 1000+ ACCOUNTS: Compatible with Google, Microsoft, and Apple. A single Security Key C NFC secures 100 of your favorite accounts, including email, password managers, and more.
- FAST & CONVENIENT LOGIN: Plug in your Security Key C NFC via USB-C and tap it, or tap it against your phone (NFC) to authenticate. No batteries, no internet connection, and no extra fees required.
- TRUSTED PASSKEY TECHNOLOGY: Uses the latest passkey standards (FIDO2/WebAuthn & FIDO U2F) but does not support One-Time Passwords. For complex needs, check out the YubiKey 5 Series.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made from tough, waterproof, and crush-resistant materials. Manufactured in Sweden and programmed in the USA with the highest security standards.
What to do if you used the same password elsewhere
A Dell.com reset changes the credential for Dell.com; it does not change that password on any other site. If you reused it, change the password on each other account where it was used. The Federal Trade Commission also advises changing reused or similar passwords after a company reports a breach.
- Use a different, strong password for each account. A password manager or a browser’s saved-password feature can help you keep track of unique credentials.
- Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA) where available. The FTC says an authenticator app or security key offers stronger protection than codes sent by text or email.
- For an especially sensitive account, consider phishing-resistant MFA. CISA identifies a physical security key as its strongest listed MFA method. These are general account-security recommendations, not measures Dell required in 2018.
How the 2018 incident differs from Dell’s 2024 portal incident
Dell’s 2024 incident was separate: it involved a customer portal and purchase-related records, not the 2018 attempted extraction from Dell’s network. The reported categories and account response also differed.
Rank #2
- Requires 3 "AAA" batteries (included)
- Unit auto-locks for 30 minutes after 5 consecutive incorrect PINs
| Incident | System and reported information | What Dell said about the response or data |
|---|---|---|
| November 2018 | Dell’s network activity attempted to extract names, email addresses and hashed passwords associated with Dell.com customers. | Dell said it found no conclusive evidence that information was extracted and required Dell.com users to reset passwords. |
| 2024 | A customer portal incident involved names, physical addresses and purchase-related details such as service tags, item descriptions, order dates and warranty information. | Dell said the information did not include financial or payment information, email addresses, telephone numbers or highly sensitive customer information. This incident was distinct from the 2018 password reset. |
TechCrunch reported that Dell did not disclose how many people were affected or how the 2024 incident occurred in its response to the outlet. A seller on a hacking forum claimed a dataset related to 49 million people; that was the seller’s claim, not a confirmed Dell count.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- FIDO-ONLY FUNCTIONALITY: Supports FIDO2 (passkeys) and FIDO U2F protocols for passwordless and second-factor authentication. Does not support OTP, TOTP, Smart Card (PIV), or other advanced features - upgrade to YubiKey 5 Series for extended functionality
- SECURE AND CONVENIENT: Passwordless MFA login with the YubiKey Bio authenticator and biometric information using a fingerprint, with a PIN as a fallback. Simply plug in via USB and use your fingerprint to authenticate
- DEVICE & OS COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux. Works seamlessly with supported services like Google and Microsoft accounts, and major password managers. See the full compatibility list at "Works With YubiKey"
- DURABLE & RELIABLE: Resistant to tampering, water, and crushing. No batteries or network connectivity required, offering dependable authentication without any downtime. Securely manufactured in USA & Sweden
- Yubico Authenticator App - Fingerprint enrollment, passkey management and PIN configuration available via the app app - Upgrade to YubiKey 5 Series to generate one-time-passwords (OTP) via Yubico Authenticator and for advanced compatibility (OATH, PIV)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
