FBI: probes into ShinyHunters which hacked FBI job website

The US FBI says it is investigating a criminal hacking group's claims that it had stolen "very sensitive data" belonging to thousands of agents and applicants and that it had compromised the bureau's jobs website.

A message that circulated online from a hacking group known as ShinyHunters claimed responsibility for the hack.

The group claims it holds data on almost all FBI agents and individuals who filed an application with the FBI for a job.

Experts say based on the group's past practices, there is reason to believe the hackers' claims.

If so, the hack could expose agents and their families to extortion, swatting and other harassment.

The group says it wants the FBI to correct what it claims as false allegations describing it as a "cyber criminal group."