Motherboard has reported that China-based learning device manufacturer VTech, which makes educational games and tech aimed at children, has been hacked.
According to information provided by the hacker, who sent Motherboard a number of files containing the sensitive data, the personal information of nearly 5 million parents and over 200,000 children has been compromised.
The data sent to Motherboard included names, email addresses, passwords, and the home addresses of parents, as well as the first names, genders, and birthdays of children.
VTech, which didn't realize it had been the victim of an attack until it was notified by Motherboard, explained that the hacker gained access to customer data by breaking into its Learning Lodge database.
Although the hacker said they don't plan to use, sell, or release the information – which doesn't include customer credit card details – VTech has nonetheless launched a full investigation and promised to bolster security.
"Upon discovering the unauthorized access we immediately conducted a thorough investigation, which involved a comprehensive check of the affected site and implementation of measures to defend against any further attacks," read a company statement.
"The investigation continues as we look at additional ways to strengthen our Learning Lodge database security. We are committed to protecting our customer information and their privacy, to ensure against any such incidents in the future."