What is a security breach?

A security breach is defined as unauthorized access to data or networks. This means that an individual or entity has gained access to information that should be protected, intentionally bypassing security protocols. Such breaches can lead to data theft, data corruption, or even loss of data integrity, often resulting in significant consequences for both individuals and organizations.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as it highlights the vulnerabilities systems face and underscores the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect sensitive information. Unlike enhancements to data protection, user experience techniques, or software issues that can be resolved with updates, a security breach represents a critical failure of security measures, requiring immediate attention and remediation to prevent data exploitation.