A data breach is an incident where sensitive, confidential, or protected data is accessed, disclosed, or stolen by an unauthorized individual. Data breaches can result in significant financial loss, legal consequences, and damage to a company's reputation.
Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords and implement multi-factor authentication.Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both in transit and at rest.Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
Phishing Attacks: Attackers trick individuals into disclosing sensitive information.Malware: Malicious software is used to gain unauthorized access to systems.Insider Threats: Employees or contractors misuse their access privileges.
Unauthorized Access: Sensitive data is accessed by individuals without permission.Data Theft: Information such as personal data, financial records, and intellectual property can be stolen.Impact: Can lead to financial loss, legal issues, and reputational damage.
Companies should immediately contain the breach, notify affected individuals, and report the incident to relevant authorities. They should also review and improve security measures to prevent future breaches.
Individuals can protect themselves by using strong passwords, being cautious of phishing scams, and regularly monitoring their accounts for suspicious activity.