What are data breaches?

A data breach is a breach of security as a result of a cyber-attack or otherwise unlawful loss or disclosure of confidential data from a computer system or network. Cybercriminals typically want to steal names, email addresses, usernames, passwords, and credit card numbers.

In many instances, an organisation or company won’t even know that there has been a data breach until long after the incident.

Common cyber-attacks used to cause a data breach include Spyware and Phishing.

How to prevent data breaches

Take steps to strengthen your personal data from being breached. Use different passwords on every account, monitor your online transactions and use secure websites. Organisations should look for suspicious activity.