Data breaches are when private information is released to the public or dark web without authorization. It’s often the job of hackers, cybercriminals, or others, and usually done with bad intentions. However, in some cases they can occur accidentally. Big and small businesses are all at risk of data leaks, but some methods can help prevent them. Using proxies can help protect your data, so check this method out to protect your company and buy residential proxies to assist.
Five Reasons Data Breaches Occur
While data breaches can occur for a number of reasons, these five are the most common.
Weak or Stolen Credentials
Sites always recommend you create a strong and unique password, but many people reuse the same one for different accounts. Stolen passwords are one of the most frequent occurrences leading to data breaches.
Malware
Malware is a tool cybercriminals can use to access your systems and cause chaos. They plant the malware using a pre-existing vulnerability, like a gap in your firewall, an unknowing employee opening a phishing link, or by downloading infected files. This malware corrupts your server and allows unauthorized access to the hacker.
Software and Application Vulnerabilities
No software can be perfect, and often your antivirus or firewall technologies can have gaps. The same can happen with any software you install on your device, and hackers exploit these vulnerabilities to access sensitive information.
In-House Error
Sometimes you make mistakes, and in-house errors are a way employees can accidentally leak sensitive information. All it requires is one person accidentally cc’d into a sensitive email, the wrong document being attached, or a stolen laptop for information to leak.
Malicious Insiders
Not all people have a sense of morals, and you might find an employee with access to sensitive information selling it to another person or business. If an employee is disgruntled or wants to make money, some might even sell the information on the dark web.
Recent Data Breaches
No matter the reason, data breaches are entirely too common, as you can see in the examples below.
Exposed AT&T Customer Data
In March 2023, AT&T stated that roughly nine million customers had their data exposed to danger after an attack on a third-party vendor. The company stated that while it exposed customers’ network plans and payment amounts, it leaked no sensitive or financial information.
Leaked Data on Congress Members
Also in March, thousands of US Congress members had their sensitive information related to DC Health Link leaked and made available on the dark web forum, Breached Forums. While the Capitol Police are working with the FBI, they released nothing further on the culprit.
Breach of US Marshall Data
The US Marshals discovered a data breach in February 2023. The breached information includes administrative files and returns from legal processes. It also includes personally identifiable information on specific people related to the USMS.
Heritage Provider Network Breach
The Heritage Provider Network disclosed in February that a ransomware attack launched against their system in December uncovered information. It revealed over three million patients’ medical records, social security numbers, and other sensitive data.
How to Prevent Information Leaks
While there’s no foolproof way to prevent a data breach, as hackers evolve along with the preventative methods, there are some ways to lessen the chances of becoming a victim.
Proxies
Proxies hide your IP address and ensure your personal information is more secure on your servers. Premium proxies, like when you buy residential proxies, hide your network from online sources, and add an extra server between you and the web. Proxy servers also help you manage your network, see who’s accessing it, and choose which devices are allowed to use the network and access the servers.
If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of proxies and understand the differences between proxies and VPNs, this video offers a detailed overview – The Difference Between a VPN and a Proxy
Updated Software and Procedures
Many software updates fix discovered vulnerabilities, so always use the latest software. Along with using the updated software, ensure you have detailed procedures on what to do in the event of an information breach or unidentified connection to catch these leaks before it becomes too significant.
Test Your Systems
Regularly test your systems with penetrative tests to see how they would hold up against a cyber attack. You can identify flaws and gaps in your defense and improve it. These tests protect your customers and the reputation of your company.
Prevent Data Breaches
Data breaches are all too common, no matter the size of your business. There are many reasons these leaks occur, but luckily, there are also some ways you can try to prevent them. Buy residential proxies for secure and authentic proxy servers that help protect your private information. Remaining aware of how these breaches occur and how to prevent them only plays in your favor, so keep your company safe.
