What does the term "data breach" refer to?

The term "data breach" specifically refers to an incident where there is unauthorized access to sensitive data. This can involve personal information, financial records, or any other confidential data that should be protected from exposure. Data breaches can occur through various means, such as hacking, malware attacks, or even human error, and they pose significant risks to individuals and organizations because they can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and reputational damage.

Recognizing what constitutes a data breach is fundamental in the field of cybersecurity, as it emphasizes the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive information. Understanding the nature of data breaches helps organizations develop better incident response strategies to mitigate the potential impact when such events occur.