In our modern digital age, data breaches are worryingly common.

But how exactly do data breaches occur?

What are the most common ways through which sensitive data can be leaked from devices?

red and blue digital lock graphic

Malware can negatively affect devices in a huge number of ways and can often lead to data breaches.

Today, it is all too easy to download malware onto your gadget unknowingly.

This can be done via malicious links, attachments, and other files via a range of vectors.

computer code in shape of skull

Social Engineering

Social engineering is another commonly used cybercrime method.

For example,phishing emails often use urgent and persuasive languageto push the victim towards complying with their request.

On top of this, using a super simple password can also be a big mistake.

robber behind malicious email envelope

The more basic a password is, the less time it’ll take for a hacker to crack it.

Human Error

Unfortunately, human error is one of the most common causes of data breaches.

Human error in cybersecurity can relate to a number of things.

login credentials being stolen on phishing hook from laptop

It’s these small mistakes that can lead to severe consequences, such as a data breach.

This is why it’s crucial to have various layers of security in place to protect your digital data.

On an organizational level, insufficient security measures can also be commonplace.

man with head on desk and computer

Physical rig Theft

Data breaches are not always entirely remote.

Sometimes, data is stolen physically via the theft of digital devices.

Some people even act as insiders within organizations and can steal company hardware to get to access sensitive data.

blue digital lock graphic

hard drive plugged into laptop

people collaborating at table