Netflix has released a new docuseries titled "Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal". This three-part British production explores the rise and fall of Ashley Madison, a controversial dating site aimed at married individuals seeking extramarital affairs. The series, directed by Toby Paton, delves into various facets of the scandal, including the business's unethical practices, the infamous 2015 hack, and the public fallout.
Ashley Madison was founded with the slogan “When monogamy becomes monotony,” later changing to “Life is short. Have an affair” under CEO Noel Biderman. The platform experienced rapid growth but failed to secure user data effectively, leading to a significant data breach in 2015 by a group known as The Impact Team. This hack exposed the identities of thousands of users, resulting in widespread personal and professional turmoil.
The docuseries discusses key individuals affected by the breach, such as Sam Rader, a Christian vlogger from Dallas, and his wife, Nia. It also examines the media's voyeuristic coverage and the ongoing investigation into the hackers' motives. Former employees, including sales executive Evan Back, provide insights into the company’s inner workings.
"Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal" offers viewers a multi-dimensional look at the scandal, blending elements of business failure, crime investigation, and media criticism. It is now available for streaming on Netflix.