Different Types of Data Breaches and How You Can Protect Yourself

Did you know the average cost associated with a data breach in 2019 was nearly $8.2 million? In fact, more than 3,800 data breaches occurred in the first six months of the year. To say the least, those are alarming statistics.

Therefore, it’s critical to become aware of the types of breaches. Also, learn how to defend against them. What is a data breach? Essentially, it’s unauthorized access or use of protected data.

In reality, this includes social security numbers, names and addresses, bank accounts, and other financial information. Of course, breaches in Florida and other states are often digital. Also, they can be physically initiated.

Plus, breaches are commonly intentional on the part of cybercriminals. Additionally, accidental data breaches are possible. Therefore, let’s look closer at the common types of information targeted in these data thefts:

Data Breach Targets

In reality, lots of private and sensitive information is vulnerable to compromise during a data breach. This includes:

• Personal Information – Such as Names, Phone Numbers, Birth Date, And Home Address
• Credit or Debit Card Numbers
• Social Security Numbers
• User Names And Passwords
• Driver’s License Information
• Financial Records
• Confidential Corporate Data

Types of Data Breaches

Not all data breaches are created equal. Thus, they’re broken down into categories. These define the type of material involved:

• Physical Theft
• Hacking
• Denial of Service
• Insider Theft
• Employee Error or Accidental Data Exposure

The most common data breach is hacking. Truthfully, they use this method due to the frequency of incidents. Also, cybercriminals use sophisticated tactics.

They include malware, ransomware, and phishing. Actually, malware refers to viruses and spyware that directly steals data. Conversely, ransomware holds data ‘hostage” in exchange for payment. Alternatively, phishing lures users to click on virus-infected links.

Data Breach Protection

There are many ways to protect your Florida data from a breach. Hence, it’s best to develop a response plan. In doing so, you’ll stay prepared and able to quickly recover. Follow these parameters to ensure the best care for your data:

• Identify physical and digital data risks. Also, conduct information risk assessments at least annually.
• Implement safeguards to protect data including thorough employee training, access control, and data encryption.
• Be aware of common signs preceding data breaches.
• Develop a comprehensive response plan in the event of a data breach. Additionally, identify causes to prevent future incidents.
• Ensure a data backup plan is in place to replace lost data, internal systems, and services.
• Conduct regular testing and updating for onsite and remote systems.