Under a joint multi-state and Federal Trade Commission agreement, a settlement of $17.5 million was reached with Ruby Corp., which runs the online adult dating site ashleymadison.com and was found guilty of lax security leading to a website breach. Announcing this, Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman said Ruby Corp. has also agreed to implement stronger website security and stop deceptive practices.

In July 2015, ashleymadison.com suffered a data breach in which hackers stole personal information for millions of its members and published them online. The pilfered data included photos, usernames, and communications.

During investigation, the dating website was found to be indulging in corrupt practices like using fake profiles, misuse of members’ photographs as well as fabricated security certifications. The company also continued to retain details of members even though they had paid to have their account deleted.

Click here for the AG press note.