A data breach is a security incident where sensitive, confidential, or protected information is accessed, stolen, or disclosed by unauthorized individuals. These breaches can affect individuals, businesses, or governments and can involve personal information like names, addresses, credit card details, or even more sensitive data like Social Security numbers or passwords. Some common causes of data breaches include:
- Hacking: Cybercriminals using malicious software (malware), phishing, or other methods to gain access to systems and steal data.
- Human Error: Employees accidentally sharing sensitive data or misconfiguring security settings.
- Weak Security Measures: Outdated software, weak passwords, and insufficient encryption can make it easier for hackers to access systems.
- Insider Threats: Employees or contractors with access to data who misuse it intentionally or unintentionally.
- Physical Theft: Stolen devices or servers containing sensitive information.
After a breach, it’s important for companies to notify affected individuals and take steps to secure their systems, which could include offering credit monitoring, updating passwords, and improving overall cybersecurity.
