Data breaches are one of the common ways in which hackers gain unauthorised access to user’s sensitive information. The hackers use confidential data or financial data to hackers. These breaches can be intentional, with hackers exploiting weaknesses to steal data. Sometimes, it is also accidental, like an employee mistakenly sharing information online. Cyber hackers can then exploit this stolen information for financial gain by demanding ransom or selling it to the dark web. 

What is a Data Breach?

A data breach is a cyber attack in which hackers compromise sensitive and confidential information. Data Breaches are not just limited to computers or smartphones but social media apps are also vulnerable to hacking these days. Hackers often steal sensitive information like financial and personal related to users and exploit them for their benefit. Data Breaches have posed several problems as hackers can exploit personal data and demand ransom from users. 

Common Causes of Data Breach

Data Breach poses exploitation risks to user’s data and sensitive information. Some common causes like weak credentials, malware or unauthorised access offer an upper hand to the hackers. Check out the section below to know about the common causes of data breaches.  

Weak Credentials

Weak credentials are major reasons that lead to data breaches as they offer easy access to hackers. Hence, one should update passwords regularly and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. Using 2FA is also a great way to add security to social media accounts or systems. 

Malware

Malware is technically malicious software that is installed in the computer or smartphone thus exploiting the data. Post installation, the hackers gain unauthorised access to one’s system by potentially exploiting it. The major intent of installing malware is to exploit one’s financial data and confidential information for one’s financial gain. 

Ransomware

Ransomware is one of the common kinds of data breach mechanisms that exploit the data or operating system of a computer. It works on the mechanism of encrypting a user’s file or locking their system till the time they receive the ransom. Typically, the ransom is asked in the form of cryptocurrency. To avoid data breaches, one should invest in high-quality antivirus or avoid clicking on malicious links

Improper Configuration

Improper configurations are also a leading cause of data breaches. The data breaches include default passwords, open ports or weak encryptions. The weak encryption creates vulnerabilities which are further exploited by the hackers to gain access to the data or system. Hence, users are advised to rectify these issues from time to prevent data breaches. One should analyse the configurations and try to implement the proper configuration practices on the system. 

DNS Attacks

Lastly, DNS (Domain Name System) attacks are one of the common causes of data breaches. In this, the hackers target the DSN infrastructure and manipulate the domain names into IP addresses. These attacks also cause disruptions by redirecting the users to malicious websites. 

Steps to Prevent Data Breach

Preventing data breaches is not an easy task but adhering to some precautions helps to avert it. Refer to the section below to know about the basic steps that help to prevent data breaches. 

1. Strong password

A strong password is one of the basic things that helps to avert data breaches commonly. You should always keep a password of atleast 8 to 15 characters with a mix of symbols and alphabets. A strong password acts like a shield against hackers hence one should always try to keep a password strong. Also, try to update the password at atleast every six months. 

2. 2 Factor Authentication

2 FA is yet another crucial step to prevent data breaches. Whether you are using it for work email or social media accounts. 2FA offers a dual level of security thus preventing data breach and hacking. When using two-factor authentication, be mindful of the second layer and ensure that it is strong enough like an SMS code, or authenticator app.

3. Updated Software

Update your laptop or phone with the latest software as the latest versions have advanced security patches. These offer complete protection from hackers thus preventing data breaches. You should also download the latest software updates for your social media apps as they consist of updated patches that prevent exploitations. 

On a final note, data breaches have become a common threat and they cause significant damage to user’s data. Common causes that lead to data breaches are using malicious links or outdated passwords. However, one should refer to basic prevention techniques like keeping a strong password, relying on 2FA to prevent data breaches and keeping your data secured.