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What is a Data Breach?
What is a Data Breach?A data breach is a security incident where unauthorized people access sensitive information. This can include personal data like Social Security numbers, or corporate data like customer records. It can be the result of a hacker successfully breaking into a system, gaining control of its network and exposing its data, usually personal data covering items such as credit card numbers, bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, and much more.
Types of data breaches:
- Confidentiality breach: When unauthorized people access confidential information
- Integrity breach: When the integrity of data is compromised
- Availability breach: When the availability of data is compromised
Other Definitions: Fortinet Definition
Causes of data breaches:
Hackers: Hackers can use malware, password attacks, and social engineering to access data
Malicious insiders: Current or former employees can steal or leak data to third parties
Hacktivists: Hacktivists can intentionally cause data breaches
State actors: State actors can intentionally cause data breaches
Steps to manage a data breach:
- Contain the breach
- Notify those affected
- Conduct a security audit
How to protect against data breaches
Use strong passwords, Keep software up to date, Be wary of social engineering attacks, and Protect against physical attacks.
