A data breach signifies an incident in which unauthorized individuals gain access to sensitive, protected, or confidential data, often leading to exposure of personal information. These breaches can occur through various means, such as hacking, phishing, or insider threats. The consequences can be severe, affecting individuals and organizations alike with potential financial losses, reputation damage, and legal ramifications. Addressing a data breach often entails notifying affected parties and taking measures to prevent future occurrences, including enhancing cybersecurity protocols.