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Data Breach is when personal information and company data are compromised by cyberattacks. This could include information such as names, addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, social security numbers, credit card or bank account details, medical records and financial information. Other types of information that hackers seek include intellectual property, including research and product designs, as well as source code. These attacks can be carried out by state sponsored hackers, employees of competing companies or opportunistic hacking groups.

The process of data breach usually begins with a hacker researching the target, looking for entry points by scanning systems and open ports or searching online for vulnerabilities. Once they have identified a weak point, the hacker can then exploit it by running code or using tools to gain access and infiltrate the system. Once access is gained, the hacker can then search through systems and download information. They may also steal sensitive information such as passwords, emails and communications, or damage the system by spreading malware, DDoS (disrupting service), or ransomware.

Cyberattacks can impact individuals and businesses, with the most severe consequences for large organizations. Breaches can impact a company’s reputation, which can take a long time to recover from. In addition, there are legal implications. Most countries, including the United States, require businesses to report breaches when a person’s personal information is involved. Other regulations may apply depending on the type of information and the data breach. For example, if sensitive data is published on the internet by mistake, it is often cached on search engines for a long period of time and then posted on other websites, potentially leading to identity theft or fraud.