What is the Ashley Madison dataset?

The Ashley Madison dataset refers to the large collection of data that was stolen and subsequently leaked by hackers from the Ashley Madison website, a platform designed to facilitate extramarital affairs. The breach happened in July 2015, when a group called "The Impact Team" claimed responsibility for the hack and threatened to release sensitive customer data unless the site was taken down. Despite the demand not being met, the group released the data in August 2015, which included user details such as names, passwords, addresses, phone numbers, and transaction records. This exposure led to widespread privacy concerns, personal embarrassments, and even extreme repercussions for its members. The event highlighted significant issues about cybersecurity and the ethical implications of both operating and hacking such controversial services.