Data breaches can be categorized based on how they occur, their intent, or the type of data compromised.
1. Unauthorized Access:
• Hackers or unauthorized individuals gain access to systems, networks, or databases through weak passwords, stolen credentials, or exploiting vulnerabilities.
• Example: A cybercriminal uses phishing to steal employee login details and accesses sensitive customer data.
2. Malware Attacks:
• Malicious software (e.g., ransomware, spyware, trojans) is used to infiltrate systems, steal data, or disrupt operations.
• Example: Ransomware encrypts a company’s database, demanding payment for access, while exfiltrating sensitive data.
3. Phishing and Social Engineering:
• Attackers trick individuals into revealing sensitive information or credentials through deceptive emails, texts, or fake websites.
• Example: An employee clicks a fraudulent link in an email, leading to the installation of keylogging software that captures login credentials.
4. Insider Threats:
• Breaches caused by employees, contractors, or partners, either intentionally (malicious) or unintentionally (negligent).
• Example: An employee accidentally shares a file containing customer data with an unauthorized party.
5. Physical Breaches:
• Theft or loss of physical devices like laptops, USB drives, or hard drives containing sensitive data.
• Example: A company laptop with unencrypted customer records is stolen from an employee’s car.
6. Exploitation of Vulnerabilities:
• Attackers exploit unpatched software, misconfigured systems, or outdated security protocols to gain access.
• Example: A hacker uses a known vulnerability in outdated server software to access a company’s financial records.
7. Data Interception:
• Data is intercepted during transmission, often through unsecured networks or man-in-the-middle attacks.
• Example: Attackers capture sensitive data sent over an unsecured public Wi-Fi network.
8. Third-Party Vendor Breaches:
• Breaches occur through compromised third-party vendors or partners with access to an organization’s systems or data.
• Example: A vendor’s weak security allows hackers to access a retailer’s customer payment information.
9. Skimming and Point-of-Sale (POS) Breaches:
• Attackers use devices or malware to capture payment card information at POS terminals or during online transactions.
• Example: A skimmer device on a retail store’s card reader steals credit card details.
10. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) Breaches:
• While primarily aimed at disrupting services, some DDoS attacks distract organizations while attackers steal data.
• Example: A DDoS attack overwhelms a company’s website, allowing hackers to infiltrate the database unnoticed.
Each type of breach can lead to the exposure of sensitive information, such as personal data, financial records, intellectual property, or trade secrets, depending on the target and method.