There's been a Data Breach!

Data Breach

A data breach is an incident when a third party gets access to information without authorization. This could be malicious outside attackers, an accidental insider, or access to data from stolen devices. Data breaches can cause harm to businesses and consumers. They are usually very costly and time consuming to fix, and can result in damaged reputation.

With new cases of cyber-attacks daily, the increase in volume has increased the cost of the average data breach on a globally. A study by Ponemon Institute reveals that a company spends up to $4 million cost for data breach. That means $148 on average per stolen record. Online crime is a real threat to all internet users.

Whether you have credit or not, cyber attackers usually find a way to use your information to commit fraud. They can drain your bank account, get a driver’s license in your name, get medical treatment on your insurance or un up credit card bills.

4 Signs of Data Breach

In the case that you are a victim of identity data theft, it would end up taking time and costing you a huge amount of dollars to resolve the issue. However, if identity theft is detected early enough, it would help save time and resources spent whenever a case occurs. Here is what to check if you suspect an identity thief is targeting you;

i. Login issues

If you try inputting your login password, and your account remains inaccessible, that may be a sign of data breach. Likely, a cyber criminal might have tried to access it and locked the account after many trials. In some cases, the attacker may have even logged in and changed your credentials.

ii. Slow Network

Many times, this is usually not alarming. However, a slow network could indicate that large files are being transferred. Worse, it may be in the presence of a malware.

iii. Strange Behavior of a Computer

Antivirus pop-up warning messages, a new toolbar in the internet browser, or random cursor movements are all signs that your device may be compromised.

iv. File Changes

Whenever a hacker gets access to a network, they could modify, change or delete files in the system

How to Prevent Data Breaches

Breaches happen in so many ways, and security requires a multifaceted approach to be successful. It is possible to minimize risk of data breaches with the following practices;

i. Training and Awareness

Training your staff to follow best practices will help avoid mistakes that could lead to breaches

ii. Up-to-date Security Software

Ensure your software is up to date to avoid weak spots for hackers to exploit.

iii. Regular Risk Assessments

This will help you review and address any changes or new risks in data protection.

iv. Encryption and data backup

Data should be backed up to remote services using the Internet where it cannot be lost or stolen.

If you apply approach to security with various policies, procedures, and measures to mitigate security threats, you will be in a much better state to combat cyber threats and avoid future data breaches.

#cybersecurity #databreach #virus #data #computer #malware #antivirus