What is a security breach?

A security breach refers specifically to an incident that involves unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information. This definition encompasses a range of events where systems are compromised and data that is meant to be protected is accessed by individuals who do not have permission to view it. This can include hacking, phishing, or other malicious activities that result in confidential information, such as personal identification details, financial records, or proprietary business data, being exposed or stolen.

Understanding this definition is crucial because it underscores the seriousness of the incident, as breaches can lead to severe consequences for individuals and organizations, including legal liability, financial loss, and damage to reputation. Being able to identify and respond to a security breach is essential for maintaining the integrity of information systems and protecting sensitive data.

In contrast, the other options either minimize the impact of a breach, refer to unsuccessful attempts rather than actual breaches, or misunderstand the nature of security measures, thus failing to capture the critical elements that define a security breach.