What is a Data Breach?

by Paul Davies

Data Breach

A data breach occurs when sensitive, protected, or confidential data is accessed, disclosed, or stolen by an unauthorised party.

Data breaches can result from cyber attacks, insider threats, or even accidental leaks. Common targets include personally identifiable information (PII), financial data, health records, and intellectual property.

The consequences of a data breach can include legal penalties, reputational harm, and financial losses. Organisations must implement robust security measures, such as encryption, access controls, and employee training, to mitigate the risk of data breaches.