Snapchat plans to put out a more secure version of its application following a breach that allowed hackers to collect the usernames and phone numbers of around 4.6 million of its devotees.

The sophistication of a global network of thieves who drained cash machines around the globe of $45m (€35m) in mere hours sent ripples through the security world, not merely for the size of the operation and ease with which it was carried out, but also for the threat that more such thefts may be in store.