Learn from Google (Google+)

The Bug That Shuttered
Google+: A Privacy Nightmare

In 2018, a critical bug in the Google+ API exposed the private data of up to 500,000 users, leading to the platform's demise. Incident Drill helps engineering teams practice and learn how to identify and prevent similar catastrophic privacy breaches.

Google (Google+) | 2018 | Security Bug (Privacy)

Practice This Scenario →

The High Stakes of Privacy

The Google+ API bug highlights the devastating impact of unvetted code changes and insufficient privacy controls. Data breaches erode trust, incur massive fines, and damage brand reputation. Preventing these incidents requires rigorous testing and a culture of security awareness.

PREPARE YOUR TEAM

Incident Drill: Prepare Your Team for the Unexpected

Incident Drill provides realistic incident simulations based on real-world events like the Google+ API bug. Teams learn to collaborate effectively, identify vulnerabilities, and implement robust security measures, all in a safe and controlled environment.

🕵️‍♀️

Realistic Simulations

Practice handling incidents based on real-world scenarios.

🤝

Collaborative Training

Improve team communication and coordination during critical incidents.

🔎

Root Cause Analysis

Develop skills in identifying the underlying causes of incidents.

🔒

Security Best Practices

Learn and implement security best practices to prevent future breaches.

📊

Performance Tracking

Measure team performance and identify areas for improvement.

📚

Post-Incident Reviews

Facilitate thorough post-incident reviews to extract valuable lessons.

WHY TEAMS PRACTICE THIS

Build a Culture of Security and Resilience

✓ Prevent costly data breaches
✓ Improve incident response time
✓ Enhance team collaboration
✓ Strengthen security awareness
✓ Minimize reputational damage
✓ Meet compliance requirements

Attack Flow

2016-2018 Bug introduced in Google+ API Vulnerability

Ongoing External developers access private user data Data Exposure

2018 Bug discovered and reported Discovery

2019 Google+ shut down Resolution

How It Works

Step 1: Incident Briefing

Understand the context of the Google+ API bug.

Step 2: Investigate the Code

Analyze code snippets to identify the vulnerability.

Step 3: Develop a Patch

Create a fix to prevent further data exposure.

Step 4: Retrospective Analysis

Discuss lessons learned and implement preventative measures.

EXPLORE MORE

Related Incidents

Ready to Prevent Your Own Security Nightmare?

Join the Incident Drill waitlist and be among the first to experience realistic incident simulations that will transform your team's security posture.

Get Early Access →

✓ Founding client discounts ✓ Shape the roadmap ✓ Direct founder support

The Bug That Shuttered Google+: A Privacy Nightmare