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A data breach is a security incident in which information is accessed without authorization. Data breaches can hurt businesses and consumers in a variety of ways. They are a costly expense that can damage lives and reputations and take time to repair.

Why do data breaches occur?

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Cybercrime is a profitable industry for attackers and continues to grow. Hackers seek personally identifiable information to steal money, compromise identities, or sell over the dark web. Data breaches can occur for a number of reasons, including accidentally, but targeted attacks are typically carried out in these four ways:

• Exploiting system vulnerabilities. Out-of-date software can create a hole that allows an attacker to sneak malware onto a computer and steal data.
• Weak passwords. Weak and insecure user passwords are easier for hackers to guess, especially if a password contains whole words or phrases. That’s why experts advise against simple passwords, and in favor of unique, complex passwords.
• Drive-by downloads. You could unintentionally download a virus or malware by simply visiting a compromised web page. A drive-by download will typically take advantage of a browser, application, or operating system that is out of date or has a security flaw.
• Targeted malware attacks. Attackers use spam and phishing email tactics to try to trick the user into revealing user credentials, downloading malware attachments, or directing users to vulnerable websites. Email is a common way for malware to end up on your computer. Avoid opening any links or attachments in an email from an unfamiliar source. Doing so can infect your computer with malware. And keep in mind that an email can be made to look like it comes from a trusted source, even when it’s not.

How to protect your personal information in the event of a data breach?

To help protect your identity, it’s important to take steps to help protect yourself and your personal information. These steps can include:

• Use strong, secure passwords. Use a complex and unique password for each of your online accounts. Keeping track of all those passwords can be difficult.
• Monitor your bank and other financial accounts. Check your accounts on a regular basis for unfamiliar activity. And if the companies offer activity alerts via text or email, it may make sense for you to sign up for them.
• Check your credit report. Do so regularly to see if a thief has attempted to open a new credit card or another account in your name. You’re entitled by law to a free credit report from each of the three major credit reporting agencies every 12 months.
• Take action as soon as possible. If you see suspicious activity, contact the financial institution involved immediately. If your information was stolen in a data breach, let them know that, as well.
• Secure your phone. If your phone doesn’t have a password, give it one. Although entering a password every time you use your phone is tedious, it provides a line of defense if your device is lost or stolen. Think about all the information a criminal could access with your unprotected phone.
• Use only secure URLs. Reputable sites begin with https://. The “s” is key. This is especially important when entering credit card or other personal information. 
• Implement high-quality security software. Install and use a software suite that includes malware and virus protection — and always keep it updated.
• Wipe your hard drive. If you are recycling your old computer, make sure that you clear your hard drive prior to disposal. The same goes for your smartphones and tablets.
• Avoid oversharing on social media. Never post anything pertaining to sensitive information, and adjust your settings to make your profiles private. While you’re at it, hold off sharing vacation pics on social media while you’re still on vacation. That tells everyone your house may be sitting empty, a perfect target for burglary.
• Use an identity theft protection or credit monitoring service. The mess caused by a stolen identity could take months or even years to fix. Given the recent number of data breaches, it’s important to consider identity theft protection or a credit monitoring service. Norton Security now includes LifeLock identity theft protection, helping to protect your personal information in an age of data breaches.