Why Data Breach Is Dangerous and What Consequences You May Suffer?

The Internet is a good thing, but it is not always safe. Any, even the most innocent, online activity - from buying a ticket and ordering a taxi to social network chatting and registering an account - may result in data breach.

Data breach is an unauthorized access of third parties to information. It may involve both personal and commercial data and can cause harm to individuals or businesses. There are many ways how data can be compromised or stolen, including cyber-attacks and sabotage.

Why Is Data Breach Dangerous?

Because publicly available data can be used by criminals for their own gain. Imagine a situation where user data that doesn't seem to be of much value - an account, order history or test results - has leaked online. But this leak could expose other personal information such as full name, date of birth, passport number, home address, email address and phone number.

The main risks here come from scammers, because it is becoming easier for them to convince victims via phone calls, phishing emails or other online scams.

What Damage Can a Data Breach Cause?

Financial Loss. If attackers gain access to your banking information, they automatically gain access to your money.
Identity Theft. Kidnappers can use personal information such as name, date of birth and passport number to create fake identification documents. The consequences can be dire, from opening accounts and taking out loans to using this information for criminal activity.
Social Engineering. Attackers can use leaked data to get more information about the victim, extort them or hack their accounts. This can even lead to digital identity theft.
Reputational Damage. Leaked personal photos, correspondence, test results, website browsing or shopping history can be used for blackmail and extortion.

Sometimes Data Breach Consequences Go Offline and Become Critical

A leaked phone number and home address, for example, is a real threat to physical safety and financial well-being. Criminals can use this information for stalking, blackmail, robbery, and other nasty things.

In addition, the disclosure of personal information without a user's consent has serious psychological consequences: increased anxiety, fear, shame and loss of trust.

It is impossible to guarantee 100% protection from online attacks, but it is possible to reduce the risk of data breach. Be proactive: use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, update your software regularly, don't use personal information where you don't need to, and be careful in your everyday online activities.