17:33 [freenode] -tomaw(tom@freenode/staff/tomaw)-

[Global Notice] Earlier today the freenode infra team noticed an anomaly on a single IRC server. We have identified that this was indicative of the server being compromised by an unknown third party. We immediately started an investigation to map the extent of the problem and located similar issues with several other machines and have taken those offline. For now, we recommend that every change their NickServ password as a precaution.

17:33 [freenode] -tomaw(tom@freenode/staff/tomaw)-

[Global Notice] We’ll issue more updates as WALLOPS and via social media!

21:31 [freenode] -tomaw(tom@freenode/staff/tomaw)-

[Global Notice] Some have pointed out that it might have been useful if I had told you HOW to update your passwords. Use /msg NickServ SET PASSWORD (without the <>). Thanks!

freenode wrote:

Earlier today the freenode infra team noticed an anomaly on a single IRC server. We have since identified that this was indicative of the server being compromised by an unknown third party. We immediately started an investigation to map the extent of the problem and located similar issues with several other machines and have taken those offline. For now, since network traffic may have been sniffed, we recommend that everyone change their NickServ password as a precaution.
We’ll issue more updates as WALLOPS and via social media!

A wake up call?

-Kobi.